'Springtime in the Camargue' by Yves Brayer (circa 1960s)

'Springtime in the Camargue' by Yves Brayer (circa 1960s). The Camargue region in the South of France is a stunning expanse of wetlands that boasts a unique blend of landscapes and wildlife. This area is characterised by its shallow lagoons, marshes, and mudflats, creating a vibrant ecosystem that is a haven for diverse flora and fauna as depicted here by the artist. As you wander through the Camargue, you’ll encounter expansive fields adorned with tall, swaying reeds and colourful carpets of wildflowers that bloom in the spring. The skies above are often dotted with flocks of flamingos, their striking pink plumage a dramatic contrast against the brilliant blues of the water and the greens of the surrounding vegetation. These wetlands are also home to a variety of other bird species, making it a prime spot for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. For these qualities, Brayer loved the Camargue region and painted it widely. The artist signed the work in the lower left hand and titled it on the reverse of the canvas.

The painting is in good overall condition having been recently cleaned by an art restoration specialist and reframed with a French-style linen slip. Please enjoy the many photos accompanying this listing. Upon request a video may be provided.

About the Artist: Yves Brayer (1907-1990) was born in Versailles, France. Determined to be an artist from an early age, he set out for Paris in 1924, initially studying at the academies in Montparnasse, and from there he attended the École des Beaux-Arts. Whilst still a student he exhibited at the Salon d’Automne and the Salon des Indépendants, and in 1927 Brayer left Paris for Spain with the aid of a state grant to enable him to study the works of the Spanish Masters in the Prado. 

On his return to Paris in 1934 he exhibited a collection of paintings inspired by his travels in Europe and Morocco to great acclaim. Having moved south to Cordes in the Tarn region of France after the War, Brayer then discovered the area which was to have the greatest artistic influence on his work: Provence. He was enchanted by the diverse and architectural forms of the Alpilles mountains, and by the vast expanse of the Camargue region with its ubiquitous white horses and black bulls. From then on he spent several months each year working in Provence. He also made several trips to Mexico, Egypt, Iran, Greece, Russia, USA and Japan where he was quick to grasp the unique rhythm and light of each country.

A large collection of Yves Brayer’s paintings are on permanent display both at the Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art in Cordes, in the Salle Yves Brayer and at the Musée Yves Brayer in Les Baux de Provence, as well as various museums in France and elsewhere. Brayer passed away in 1990. His artworks are an investment. Bids at the international auction houses continue to advance as appreciation for his work mounts. Some of the artist's oil paintings are now selling for tens of thousands of dollars.

Dimensions with frame:

H 62 cm / 24.4"

W 77.5 cm / 30.5"

Dimensions without frame:

H 50 cm / 19.7"

W 65 cm / 25.6"