'Gazebo Under the Trees in Versailles' by M. Phidias (1921)

'Gazebo Under the Trees in Versailles', oil on canvas, by M. Phidias (1921). Painted using this artist's trademark impasto, the effect is to add depth and texture to the exuberant display of hues. All of Phidias' paintings are a medley of colour viewed in close, yet delightfully come into focus as one steps away from the image. The depiction is of Marie Antoinette's Temple of Love in the gardens of Versailles outside of Paris. The work has been newly framed with a French-style linen slip. It is in overall good condition having been recently cleaned and reconditioned by an art restoration professional. Upon request, a video may be provided. This is a superb painting which highlights in a clear manner the evident skill of the artist. It is over 100 years old yet retains a vibrancy and alluring, classic irresistibility. Signed and dated in the lower left hand.

About the Artist: Little is known of M. Phidias other than he or she was born in the 19th Century and painted into the 20th. A dozen or so of the artist's paintings have become available for sale at major auction houses attesting to the quality of the works and have inspired spirited bidding. This gallery scoured the French Internet sites for references to the artist and found this one below from Bibliothèque François Mitterrand (BnF) referencing the artist's painting of a Corsican landscape:

"Paysages de Corse : tableaux de M. Phidias : exposés aux Galeries Georges Petit, 8, rue de Sèze, 8..., du 17 octobre au 31 octobre 1927". This also referenced at least two paintings by M. Phidias - clearly by the same artist (Others were found during the research however none included detailed biographies of the artist).

Dimensions with frame:

H 77 cm / 30.3"

W 66 cm / 26"

Dimensions without frame:

H 65 cm / 25.6"

W 54 cm / 21.3"