Antoine Bouvard (1870-1955)

Antoine Bouvard (1870-1955) Oil on canvas depicting Venice, bustling with boats gliding peacefully along the canals, beneath a beautiful, luminous sky with delicate hues. The ochre-toned buildings, characteristic of the Serenissima, structure the composition with great architectural elegance. The whole exudes an atmosphere that is both romantic and serene, typical of the Venetian views that made the artist famous. The work is signed Bouvard in the lower left. Painted under the name Antoine Bouvard, the artist's real name was Éloi Noël Béraud, as confirmed by his great-granddaughter, Delphine Bouvard. He also used the pseudonym Marc Aldine. Born in Saint-Jean-de-Bournay (Isère), he trained as an architect at the École des Beaux-Arts in Paris, in the studio of Constant-Dufeux. His career was remarkable: he became Director of Architectural Services for the Seine and was involved in major projects such as the Paris Stock Exchange (Palais Brongniart) and the Boulevard Morland. At the beginning of the 20th century, Antoine Bouvard discovered Venice and was immediately captivated by its unique light and architectural spectacle, a source of inspiration for many artists. He returned there very frequently throughout his life and specialized in views of the Serenissima, a subject that brought him fame. He exhibited throughout France, Italy, and in numerous European galleries. His paintings reveal the influence of Félix Ziem, whom he met during one of his stays in Venice, and demonstrate an instinctive understanding of the light so particular to Venice. He was able to capture the activity of the Grand Canal, the majesty of Santa Maria della Salute, and the serenity of the waters. His works, characterized by an intimate and luminous style, combine architectural rigor with atmospheric poetry. His popularity remains undiminished today, and he is considered one of the most renowned and respected painters of Venetian subjects. The painting is presented in a beautiful, highly decorative carved and varnished wooden frame, which perfectly showcases the work. Dimensions: Canvas only: 110 cm wide x 55 cm high. With frame: 132 cm wide x 77.5 cm high. Condition: Very good overall condition. Minor restoration and cleaning have been carried out. Note: a few very minor marks on the edge of the frame, which are insignificant. Please note: This painting comes from a private collection in Monaco. Due to its spectacular dimensions, it offers a renewed visual pleasure throughout the day: the nuances evolve with the natural light, and the work seems to literally change atmosphere from morning to evening, even in its nocturnal tones. The colors, both shimmering and romantic, bring a strong presence and timeless elegance to any interior. This painting also makes a particularly refined gift, especially for a wife or for lovers of romance and Italy. A work of character, imbued with emotion and history. Free delivery throughout France by Galerie De Cicco. Personal collection by the gallery owner is possible upon prior arrangement.