A monumental work by Toulon’s beloved painter Vincent Courdouan is set to go under the hammer at an art auction in Monaco on October 18 and 19…
This large-scale painting, measuring an impressive 2.10 meters by 3 meters, is one of Courdouan’s masterpieces and could set a new price record for the artist. The piece will be a highlight of the Monte-Carlo Auction House’s (Hôtel des Ventes de Monte-Carlo) sale of art objects and old paintings.
Depicting the harbour of Toulon from afar, the canvas is a rare and precious testimony to the city’s history, dated back to 1870. The painting captures a panoramic view of Toulon with its iconic harbour as the focal point, framed by the mountains and a sweeping sky in varying shades of blue. In the foreground, a family is seen strolling amidst ruins and greenery, adding a serene and nostalgic touch to the scene. A single palm tree dominates the centre, providing a striking vertical element that breaks the tranquil atmosphere of the landscape.
The auction house notes that this painting was previously held in a private collection on a wine estate in the Var region of France, making its appearance at auction even more special. With an estimated starting price of 20,000 to 30,000 euros, the piece is expected to attract keen interest from collectors and potentially surpass previous sales records.
“This painting’s format and historical significance make it a unique piece,” says Maître Jean Porsin, an auctioneer at the Toulon auction house. “Courdouan’s works have rarely exceeded 10,000 euros at auction, but this could be an exception.”
As one of the standout items in a sale featuring silverware, Russian art, and other old paintings, Courdouan’s grand canvas will undoubtedly be a star attraction for art enthusiasts and collectors alike.