An unapologetically traditional oil-on-canvas harborscape by the listed French School artist JULES DUFFART (1924-?): a painterly depiction of a trio of small boats at quiet anchor. The dark, graphic lines of the buildings and riggings are typical of the artist and provide stylistic contrast with the otherwise pastel palette. A similar brush technique portrays by turns dappled clouds, rippling water, and efflorescent walls. Signed lower right.

JULES DULES DUFFART studied at the Academy of Fine Arts in Paris and painted various subjects from landscapes and still lives to portraits and genre scenes. He is known for carefully choosing color palettes and expertly balancing chromatic equilibrium. Duffart is also a master of line work, especially in his landscapes. He creates distinct, dark outlines of hard, angular shapes with a confident, draftsmanly touch, in a style similar to Bernard Buffet’s. And, like Buffet’s modernist French School oils, Duffart's work is perfect for any classic modern ’50s or ’60s interior. Despite a prodigious output, there is surprisingly little biographical information to be found about Duffart, although one chronicler of the Paris art world of the 1950s wrote glowingly about him at that time:

“His recent exhibitions demonstrate a dynamic talent with an unusual style that surprised audiences and critics alike. His formulations are dramatic and authoritative. His colors, developing in a delicate chromatic range, show a profound harmony, an infinite gradation of shades with serene transparency. A turbulent spirit inspired by a creative force of glowing enthusiasm. Experts recognize him as one of the rarest talents of today’s young artists.”

DETAILS

Artist – JULES DUFFART (1924-?)

Period/Year – 1960s

Origin – FRANCE

Styles/Movements – EXPRESSIONISM; MID-CENTURY MODERN

Media – OIL

Support – CANVAS

Colors – COLORS

Condition – Excellent vintage condition. May show minor signs of previous ownership and use.

Dimensions – 26" H × 30 ½" W × 2" D