Paris Circa 1930 - Rue Mouffetard & Les Halles | Two Watercolors By J.f. Commauche (1892)

PAIRE D'AQUARELLES - PARIS POPULAIRE DES ANNÉES 1930
Jean-François Commauche (XXe siècle)
Rare and attractive set of two early watercolors by Jean-François Commauche, devoted to the old popular Paris of the 1930s.
Through sensitive observation and a remarkable sense of detail, the artist restores all the liveliness of Parisian shopping streets between the wars, with a genuine documentary and historical dimension.
The first work depicts the famous rue Mouffetard, in the 5ᵉ arrondissement, captured in the bustle of its market. The animated silhouettes, stalls, old signs and Parisian light compose a lively, warm scene. Of particular note is the now-defunct Vinay chocolates billboard, which anchors the work in the authentic Paris of the 1930s.
The second watercolor transports us to the Halles district, rue de Venise, in the heart of old merchant Paris. The artist poetically evokes the small-scale activities associated with the famous Halles market, once dubbed "the belly of Paris". Fruit and vegetable carts, car rental signs and the narrow architecture of the old streets bear witness to a Paris that has now disappeared.
These two works are a remarkable testimony to the popular, commercial Paris of the early 20th century. They are as attractive for their pictorial quality as for their historical interest.

Watercolors on paper
One signed lower right
Very good condition
Dimensions:
Rue Mouffetard:
44 x 32 cm on view
57.5 x 43.5 cm with frame

Rue de Venise - Les Halles:
45 x 22 cm on view
57 x 44 cm with frame