Clarence Montfort GIHON,
Paris, the Pont Neuf, Quai Conti
Oil on canvas signed lower right
Dimensions: 97 x 131 cm
With frame: 120 x 154 cm
Price upon request
In this exceptional canvas depicting an emblematic parisian landmark, Clarence Montfort Gihon scatters warm colors in brilliant strokes, spreading light and distributing shadows. The scene takes place on the left bank of the Seine river, during spring or summer. In the background, we can see the Saint Louis island, the Pont Neuf, the arrow of the Sainte Chapelle. Many characters are present in the scene : a fisherman, a nanny with children, some pedestrians The technique is lively, post-impressionist and the strokes are hasty.
Biography
Born in Philadelphia, Clarence M. Gihon moved to Paris in 1884 and did much of his work in France. He studied in the United States with William Merritt Chase and Keynyon C. Fox. Fox in New York, then in France in the studio of Jean-Paul Laurens (1838 – 1921). His master is reputed to be one of the last major figures in historical painting; he represented the archetype of the official painter of power because of the key role he played in the artistic institutions of France. Clarence. Mr. Gihon benefits from his experience in these conditions.
However, the young painter distances himself from academicism to develop his own style. The gap between his training and his way of painting is important to enlighten and understand his art. After a figurative period, he confirms his post-impressionist style. He depicts luminous landscapes in vivid colors, with dynamic brushstrokes, both large and small in scale.
The views he prefers are the landscapes of Paris and Normandy. He appreciates the tranquility of the seaside and the perpetual movement of the city.
His paintings are collected worldwide. Christie’s (New York) achieves excellent sales of his paintings.
Bibliography:
• Gérard Schurr, Pierre Cabane, Dictionary of the little masters of painting, 1820-1920 , t. II, Paris,
– Les Editions de l’amateur, 1996.
Gallery and exhibitions :
– Paris, private collection; Chicago, private collection; New York, private collection.
He is represented by the Richard Norton Gallery in Chicago.
