'Café de la Place' by Raymond Debiève (circa 1970s)

'Café de la Place', gouache on paper, by Raymond Debiève (circa 1970s). A solitary stroller in a small French town crosses the street in front of a café along with his dog. With several tricolour flags fluttering in the breeze, the small Place gives the impression it is ready for a holiday celebration. The artist's naive style gives way to a work which is in reality, sophisticated, confident and blissful. Although Picasso's influence is undeniable in many of his works, Debiève's own naive artistic style is on display as well. In good overall condition. Newly framed and glazed with anti-reflective glass. On his unsigned works, the Debiève family certification authority affixes their stamp. In this case it appears in the lower right hand. Please enjoy the many photos accompanying this listing. A video may be provided upon request.

About the Artist: Raymond Debiève (1931-2011), was born, along with his twin brother, Michel, in the North of France near the border with Belgium. Their parents, of humble origins, noted a talent for drawing and art in both of the boys and encouraged them in that direction. Unfortunately the boys were separated during the war years but reunited afterwards. They attended the School of Fine Arts in Valenciennes after WWII where they were awarded successive 1st prizes in the Concours de Encouragement à l'Art. Raymond not only painted but was a gifted sculptor of metal works as well. In 1960 he exhibited, with great success, a series of very colourful paintings at the Galerie des Flandres in Lille, France and later in his career in Paris and Switzerland. Primarily with respect to his portraits of women, Raymond was undeniably influenced by Picasso. At the same time, he has managed to forge a distinct style which is much admired and now collected. In 1962, Debiève relocated to Provence with his family where he continued to create and exhibit art until his death in the town of Orange in 2011. Since then, Debiève's star has been on the rise and his works more and more in demand internationally. 

Dimensions with frame:

H 77 cm / 30.3"

W 57 cm / 22.4"

Dimensions without frame:

H 61 cm / 24"

W 42 cm / 16.5"