'Portrait of a Male Bather' by Raymond Debiève (circa 1960s)

'Portrait of a Male Bather', gouache on art paper, by Raymond Debiève (circa 1960s). A stunning work of art depicting a Mediterranean bather returning the gaze of the artist. The naive but compelling portrayal was certainly influenced by Pablo Picasso who also created numerous artworks of bathers. The pink of the sand contrasts harmoniously with the baby blue sky while the sun-drenched male figure projects boldly as the focal point of the work. Absolutely breathtaking. In good vintage condition commensurate with age. The paper has taken on some evident wrinkling due to the nature of the medium with which it was created. Newly framed and glazed. Upon request, a video of the artwork will be provided. Unsigned however stamped by the Debiève family authentication authority in the lower righthand corner.

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 56 cm / 22.0"

W 66.5 cm / 26.2"

Dimensions without frame:

H 40 cm / 15.7"

W 51 cm / 20.1"