Alpine Hunters' Halt, Ecrins Massif, Dated 1895

A monogrammed watercolor, lower left, dated X 1895. A group of Alpine hunters prepare lunch over an improvised campfire in a seemingly abandoned hamlet. The architecture of its ruined houses is characteristic of villages in the Hautes-Alpes. In the background, an Alpine hunter leads a mule carrying a load, presumably equipment for setting up camp. The mountain in the background most likely corresponds to La Meije, in the Écrins massif of the Hautes-Alpes, as seen from the La Grave valley. The work bears a monogram G or C in the lower left and is dated X 1895. The monogram may refer to the artist's name, but it could also be a note indicating the location of the scene. The style of this watercolor is similar to the work of Pierre-Henri Comba, an artist who produced numerous mountain views featuring Alpine hunters. Beautiful colors, molded wooden frame with a gilt border. Dimensions with frame: 38 x 47 cm. Watercolor image dimensions: 25.5 x 36 cm.