Studio Drawing Attributed To The Circle Of Gaston Larrieu – French School, Mid-20th Century

A moving studio drawing executed in pen and ink and enhanced with delicate watercolor washes on tinted paper, depicting an artist at work in his studio.

According to family tradition, this work is said to come from the studio of the painter Gaston Larrieu and may depict the artist himself, captured in the intimacy of his creative space, surrounded by models or visitors. This provenance lends the work a special significance, offering a glimpse into the daily life of an artist’s studio in the mid-20th century.

The linework is free, lively, and remarkably expressive. In just a few lines, the artist constructs a scene full of spontaneity and movement, while the watercolor highlights bring a subtle harmony of colors. The main figure, wearing a red beret, immediately catches the eye and lends great power to this intimate composition.

In the lower portion, one can make out the beginning of a signature or monogram, which is unfortunately incomplete, leaving the question of attribution open. Nevertheless, this sheet constitutes a valuable example of studio work, likely from a collection that has remained in the artist’s family.

The work is preserved in its original frame, which shows some signs of wear that in no way detract from the quality of the drawing. On the contrary, this framing contributes to the authentic character of the piece and evokes its history.

A sheet brimming with freshness and sensitivity that will appeal to lovers of artists’ drawings, studio works, and collectors with an affinity for the 20th-century French School.

Provenance: by family tradition, from the former studio of Gaston Larrieu (attribution to be confirmed).