Georges Pacouil

About the Painting

This oil painting by Georges Pacouil captures a tranquil forest landscape with a stream set in the surroundings of Morneux, Vaucluse, in southeastern France. Painted circa 1950, the artwork reflects Pacouil's profound connection to nature and his skillful ability to translate its form and structure onto canvas. The composition demonstrates his characteristic approach to landscape painting, emphasizing the harmony and natural architecture of the scene.

The work depicts a verdant forest interior with a gentle stream flowing through dappled light and shadow. Pacouil's brushwork combines realistic precision with impressionist warmth, creating an atmosphere that invites viewers to immerse themselves in the serene environment of rural Provence. The painting exemplifies his mature style during the 1950s, when he had fully developed his distinctive approach balancing traditional craftsmanship with modernist sensibilities.

Signed in the lower left corner, this unframed oil on canvas remains in very good condition. The work represents Pacouil's dedication to the post-impressionist and neorealist traditions, showing the influence of his training under pointillist painter Hippolyte Petitjean while developing his own artistic voice.

About the Artist

Georges Louis Abdon Pacouil (1903-1997) was a French post-impressionist and neorealist painter known for his landscapes, figures, nudes, and still lifes. Born in Paris on March 24, 1903, he studied at the Bernard-Palissy School under the renowned pointillist painter Hippolyte Petitjean, whose influence shaped Pacouil's approach to color and composition.

Pacouil began his artistic career as a theater decorator from 1920 to 1934 before dedicating himself fully to painting and teaching. This early experience with theatrical design informed his understanding of composition, lighting, and spatial relationships. In 1934, he became a member of the Salon d'Automne, one of Paris's most prestigious artistic societies, where he exhibited regularly throughout his career.

His work drew comparisons to André Dunoyer de Segonzac and Amédée de La Patellière, showcasing a balance between academic technique and modernist innovation. Pacouil represented France in international exhibitions in San Francisco, Tunisia, and the Balkans, establishing his reputation beyond French borders.

Throughout his career, Pacouil received numerous prestigious awards, including the Bernheim Prize, Blumental Prize, and First Prize in the Watercolor Competition of Paris (1950). Later honors included the Silver Medal of the French Education League (1954), Vermeil Medal of Arts-Sciences-Letters (1968), and Gold Medal of Hauts-de-Seine (1984).

Georges Pacouil's works are held in significant collections, including the National Museum of Modern Art and the Centre Georges Pompidou in Paris. He died in Neuilly-sur-Seine on March 26, 1997, leaving behind a substantial body of work that continues to be valued for its careful depiction of natural beauty and harmonious composition.

Technical Details

Artist: Georges Pacouil (1903-1997)
Signed: Lower left corner
Date: c.1950
Location: Morneux, Vaucluse, France
Medium: Oil on canvas
Condition: Very good condition
Dimensions: 50 x 65 cm / 19¾ x 25½ in
Frame: Unframed
Origin: France

A serene landscape by a Salon d'Automne member whose works are held in the Pompidou Centre.