"La Bordée - 'Tacking' in Front of the Old Curiosity Shop" by French Artist, Hurel (circa 1960s)

"La Bordée - 'Tacking' in front of the Old Curiosity Shop", oil on canvas (circa 1960s), by French Artist, Hurel. A very charming and intriguing work of art depicting French sailors on a port visit to London. Their weaving paths - like sailboats tacking upwind -  take them in front of the 'Old Curiosity Shop', very possibly the oldest shop in Central London. With its precarious overhanging upper storey, uneven floorboards, sloping roof and wooden beams, this 16th century building fits perfectly in the image of Charles Dickens’ creaking, half-timbered shop from his novel, 'the Old Curiosity Shop'. Made using the wood from old ships the building miraculously survived the flames of the Great Fire of 1666 and the bombs of Second World War. Still functioning as a shop (an upmarket men’s and women’s shoe boutique at the time of writing), the building’s future and architectural heritage is now protected by a preservation order. In very good vintage condition commensurate with age. Newly framed with original painting 'name tag' affixed to the front. Signed: 'Hurel' and some illegible characters in the signature. Artwork acquired in the South of France. A short video clip of the work may be provided upon request.

Dimensions with frame:

H 68 cm (26.8")

W 95 cm (37.4")

Dimensions without frame:

H 64 cm (25.2")

W 91 cm (35.8")