'The Polo Grounds' by Pierre Gaillardot (circa 1960s)

'The Polo Grounds', watercolour on art paper (circa early 1960s), by Pierre Gaillardot. The game of polo - sometimes called 'the sport of kings' - is wildly exciting and played on horseback with two teams of four players each. The players use mallets with long, flexible handles to drive a wooden ball down a grass field and between two goal posts. It is the oldest of equestrian sports. This splendid expressionist watercolour depicts a rider swinging the mallet towards the opposition's goal. Very lively and filled with colour, this work of art is a collector's dream. Newly framed and glazed and in fair vintage condition commensurate with age. There is a noticeable fold upon close inspection of the work but this does not detract from the vibrant image overall. There are many accompanying photos in this listing to view. Upon request, a video of this work will be provided. 

About the Artist: Pierre Gaillardot (1910-2002), French painter from the new school of Paris whose origins were from the Burgundy region. He depicted scenes of vineyards and winemakers as well as horse races, sailing regattas and bathers on the beach. Employing a rather expressionist style, his depictions of horsing sports perfectly capture their swift movement and very colourful riders. In recognition of his inspired art, in 1966 he was awarded the ‘Prix Pierre Puvis de Chavannes' upon the recommendation of the Committee of the ‘Societe Nationale des Beaux-Arts’ and the City of Paris. A retrospective exhibition of his works was held at the ‘Musée d’Art Moderne’ in Paris in 1967. His works appear for sale at the major international auction houses and reside in collections around the world.  

Dimensions with frame:

H 40.0 cm / 15.7"

W 79.0 cm / 31.1"

Dimensions without frame:

H 44.0 cm / 17.3"

W 60.0 cm / 23.6"