'The Agave' by Almery Lobel-Riche (1946)

'The Agave', oil on canvas, by Almery Lobel-Riche (1946). Paintings, murals, frescoes and illustrations in literature suggest cacti and agaves have been in Europe for over 3,000 years (Ref. Georg Sydow 1987). Artists often draw their inspiration from nature. Many of them will take their canvases, paints, and paintbrushes into the great outdoors so they can paint amid the natural beauty that they wish to depict. Artists who drew inspiration from nature include Paul Cézanne (1839-1906), Claude Monet (1840-1926), Vincent Van Gogh (1853-1890) and Winslow Homer (1836-1910).
In this piece, the artist deftly conveys the light as it touches the spiny ends of the agave. The plant overshadows the natural growth in front of the modest cottage behind, most likely located in Provence, in the South of France. The artist's meticulous exactness is impressive throughout, particularly on the bark of the tree. That is strangely in opposition to its almost impressionistic softness. In any case, it is a delightful artwork which will bring a smile to your face every day. In good overall condition. It has been newly framed with a French-style linen slip and is signed by the artist in the lower right hand. Please enjoy the many photos accompanying the listing. Upon request a video may be provided.

About the Artist: Almery Lobel-Riche (1877-1950) was born to French parents in Geneva, Switzerland. Lobel-Riche studied at the École des Beaux-Arts in Montpellier, and then under Léon Bonnat at the Ecole des Beaux-Arts, Paris. The artist was a towering figure in French printmaking. He never formed part of any school, although there is a clear influence in his work of Symbolists such as Félicien Rops and Impressionists such as Louis Legrand, as well as the classical example of Ingres. 

Dimensions with Frame:

H 58 cm / 22.8"

W 50 cm / 19.7"

Dimensions without Frame:

H 46 cm / 18.1"

W 38 cm / 15"