'The Agave' by Richard Mandin (circa 1950s-60s)

'The Agave', oil on board, by Richard Mandin (circa 1950s-60s). Like extended fingers from a closed hand, the agave plant depicted in this artwork seems to move with life. Agave plants thrive in dry hot weather and there are many species that flourish in the South of France with its subtropical climate where the artist painted. Like many of his contemporaries, Mandin used a generous dose of vibrant colour in his painting. With strokes of very thick paint, one perceives an impression of the variety of his subjects. The painting is in good vintage condition and has been newly framed with a linen slip. It is signed in the lower right hand corner of the artwork 'Mandin'. Please carefully view the accompanying photos to best appreciate the work's condition and style. Upon request, a short video clip may be provided.

About the Artist: Richard Mandin (1909-2002), born in Marseille, France. He was a painter, illustrator and accomplished musician. At fifteen, he entered the Ecole des Beaux-Arts in Marseille then the Ecole du Louvre in Paris. At 23, he returned to his hometown never to move again. He worked tirelessly, but exhibited little. He struggled financially, selling his paintings here and there. In 1946, he exhibited in Paris with fellow Provençal artists, Pierre Ambrogiani, Antoine Ferrari and Auguste Chabaud. The exhibition did not go unnoticed; the following year he was selected for a major exhibition in New York with Braque, Chagall, Monet, Chabaud and Picasso. Mandin, an expressionist, used triturated paint which covered his drawings in thick layers. He loved this technique and material which somewhat explains why the subjects of his paintings are sometimes blurred and indistinguishable. His painted clouds, trees and rocks can evoke shapes or silhouettes of characters, horses or other animals. The artist's pantings are vibrant and richly coloured - they delight the viewer by creating a visual echo of his beloved music. Today Mandin's works can be found in museums in Marseille and other towns in the south of France and are widely collected with a successful sales history as well in the major auction houses. 

Dimensions with frame:

H 53 cm / 20.9"

W 76.5 cm / 30.1"

Dimensions without frame:

H  42 cm / 16.5"

W 65 cm / 25.6"