'The Beach on the French Riviera' by Pierre Gaillardot (circa 1950s)

'The Beach on the French Riviera', oil on canvas, by Pierre Gaillardot (circa 1950s). A crowded but joyful seashore scene transports one to a time that evokes images of sunbathing celebrities, designer boutiques, and luxury yachts. Saint-Tropez, and the French Riviera in general, was first discovered in the late 19th century by the Impressionist painter Paul Signac, who later lured artists such as Matisse and Marquet there. Then in 1955, the film, Et Dieu Créa la Femme (And God Created Woman), starring Brigitte Bardot, forever changed the area into a legendary seaside resort, sparkling amid the glitz of the South of France. In fair vintage condition, the painting was recently cleaned, restored and newly framed. The artist used oil impasto technique to achieve the desired visual effect. Up close it seems a random explosion of colour, but at distance, the bathers on the beach take form in vibrant splendour. Upon request a video of the piece may be provided. Signed: 'P. Gaillardot' in the lower right hand corner. 

About the Artist: Pierre Gaillardot (1910 - 2002), French painter from the new school of Paris whose origins were from the Burgundy region. He mostly depicted scenes of vineyards and winemakers, yachting regattas as well as horse races, as he later lived and worked in Deauville. Employing a rather expressionist style, his depictions of horses and their riders perfectly capture the swift movement and the beauty of the sport. In 1966 Gaillardot was awarded the ‘Prix Pierre Puvis de Chavannes' upon the recommendation of the Committee of the ‘Societe Nationale des Beaux-Arts’ and the City of Paris. A retrospective exhibition of his works was held at the ‘Musée d’Art Moderne’ in Paris in 1967. His works appear for sale at the major international auction houses and reside in both private and public collections around the world.  

Dimensions with frame:

H 68.0 cm / 26.8"

W 52.5 cm / 20.7"

Dimensions without frame:

H 64.5 cm / 25.4"

W 49.5 cm / 19.5"