'The Garoupe Sanctuary Antibes France' by Robert Dyens (1994)

'The Garoupe Sanctuary, Antibes, France', watercolour and ink on paper, by Robert Dyens (1994). The artist depicts an iconic site of cultural importance at Cap d’Antibes, the Sanctuary of La Garoupe at which the Chapelle de La Garoupe is located, is an exceptional site offering scenic views over the town of Antibes, Juan-les-Pins and a substantial section of the Côte d’Azur. Legend has it that in antiquity the location was dedicated to Selene, goddess of the Moon. At the beginning of the 4th century, Saint Helena, mother of the Emperor Constantine, made a stop at Antipolis and requested the construction of a chapel on this plateau. Three buildings can be identified whose chronology is difficult to determine: a tower, the Chapelle Notre-Dame de la Garde and the Chapelle Sainte-Hélène. The Chapelle Notre-Dame de la Garde was probably built at the end of the Middle Ages and then expanded in 1520 following a donation made by René de Savoie. The Chapelle Sainte-Hélène was probably built after the Chapelle Notre-Dame de la Garde. The two buildings have long been adjacent to one another but they are distinct, and joined on the outside by a portico. One can understand why such a peaceful locale would be the subject of an artist's brush. The serenity transfers to the viewer, lowers the stress levels and imparts a sense that the world is alright. The artwork is in good overall condition and has been newly framed and glazed with anti-reflective glass. The artist signed, dated and included the name of the sanctuary as well in the lower right hand. Please enjoy the many photos accompanying the listing. Upon request, a video may be provided. 

About the Artist: Robert Dyens was an artist active in France French in the 20th Century. Regrettably, no more information is available other than his works have been sold at prominent European auction houses, with the earliest listing in 1993. 

Dimensions with frame:

H 46.5 cm / 18.3"

W 59.5 cm / 23.4"

Dimensions without frame:

H 30 cm / 11.8"

W 43 cm / 16.9"