Printed Canvas With A Nautical Motif – Nantes, Circa 1780–1800

A large panel of printed canvas in shades of red on a cream background, featuring a remarkable maritime scene composed of numerous sailboats, harbor scenes, figures, architecture, and landscapes.  Attributed to the circle of Petitpierre.

The scene, characterized by imposing classical architecture in ruins, numerous sailing ships, harbor scenes, figures, and seascapes, bears strong similarities to the compositions produced in Nantes by Ferdinand Petitpierre & Cie in the late 18th century, notably the famous “Le Port de Mer” design, circa 1780–1785.

The composition, particularly rich and lively, evokes the large historical canvases produced in the Nantes workshops in the late 18th and early 19th centuries. The highly detailed rendering of the ships, figures, and architecture is characteristic of these printed designs, which were intended primarily for use in furnishings.

This piece likely comes from an old bedspread, of which it retains several assembled fragments. The panel was acquired in this condition and has a vertical split starting at a certain point; the two sections could easily be rejoined. Visible in the photo.

Despite the old damage and repairs, the fabric retains a richly detailed design, featuring, in particular, a spectacular monumental architectural ruin, numerous seafaring scenes, and figures in coastal landscapes.

Dimensions: 185 × 101 cm.

ref 170926