'Sailors in the Port of Nice' by Alfred Salvignol (circa 1950s)

'Sailors in the Port of Nice', mixed media - gouache, pastel and oil on paper, by Alfred Salvignol (circa 1950s). The Port of Nice is one of the key hubs of Nice and, in fact, of the entire French Riviera, standing out as one of the main harbours for the boats which sail across the Mediterranean Sea. It accommodates both the ships operated by ferry companies and the private yachts of visitors who come to Nice by sea. The artist here depicts a group of crusty sailors watching the approach of a sailboat towards the docking quay. Much skill is required to dock a sailboat without benefit of an engine. Some drag a stern anchor to slow the boat, one can 'feather' the tiller as well to make turns and slow. Or, just dropping the sail at the right moment while maintaining steerage is the most elegant but perhaps also the most difficult approach to make. Preparation and forethought are required before making these manoeuvres - plenty of fenders on both sides are needed as insurance! This painting is in fair-to-good condition, newly framed and glazed and is signed by the artist in the lower left hand corner. The signature is scratched as is the lowest left hand side of the artwork. However, that minor blemish visually blends with the style of the artist and does not affect the overall impression of the piece. Please enjoy the many photos accompanying this listing. Upon request a video of the artwork may be provided.

About the artist: Alfred Salvignol was born in the late 19th century and worked well into the 20th. He is best known for his works of Mediterranean ports, particularly Nice. His art frequently is the object of spirited bidding at prominent European auction houses. 

Dimensions with frame:

H 47 cm / 18.5"

W 62.5 cm / 24.6"

Dimensions without frame:

H 30 cm / 11.8"

W 46.5 cm / 18.3"