Jean Louis Verdié

About the Painting

This atmospheric oil painting from circa 1900 depicts a detailed coastal landscape with a bustling port scene. Jean-Louis Verdié captures the maritime activity of a French harbor with careful attention to the interplay of light on water, the architectural details of coastal buildings, and the daily commerce of a working port. The composition demonstrates the artist's skill in rendering atmospheric perspective and his keen observation of maritime life at the turn of the century.

The painting reflects the tradition of French seascape painting that flourished throughout the 19th century and into the early 20th century, when artists documented the changing coastal landscapes of France during a period of significant maritime and industrial development. Verdié's treatment combines topographical accuracy with painterly sensitivity to light and atmosphere, creating a work that serves both as documentary record and artistic interpretation.

About the Artist

Jean-Louis Verdié (1845-1937) was a French painter who specialized in maritime subjects and coastal landscapes. Born in 1845, Verdié developed his artistic practice during the latter half of the 19th century, a period when French seascape painting reached new heights of popularity and technical sophistication. He worked primarily in oil, creating detailed views of French ports, harbors, and coastal scenes.

Verdié's long career spanned more than six decades, from the mid-19th century well into the 20th century. His works are characterized by their careful observation of maritime detail, atmospheric rendering of light and weather conditions, and documentary interest in the working life of French coastal communities. He remained active as a painter into his later years, continuing to document the evolving French coastline and its maritime activities.

Jean-Louis Verdié died in 1937 at the age of 92, leaving behind a body of work that provides valuable documentation of French maritime life during a period of significant transformation in coastal commerce and naval technology.

Historical Context

This painting was created around 1900, at the turn of the century when French ports were experiencing significant modernization while still retaining much of their traditional maritime character. The period saw the coexistence of sailing vessels and steam-powered ships, traditional fishing practices alongside industrial commerce, creating the kind of varied maritime activity that Verdié captured in his coastal scenes.

Technical Details

Artist: Jean-Louis Verdié (1845-1937)
Title: Coastal Landscape
Date: c.1900
Medium: Oil on canvas
Condition: Good condition
Dimensions: 54 x 81 cm / 21½ x 32 in
Frame: Unframed
Origin: France
Authentication: Authenticated

A fine example of French maritime painting from the turn of the century.