A charming Oil on Panel Painting of a 19th century Beach Scene near Deauville by French Painter Henri de Chavigny.
Henri de Chavigny was a French genre painter who worked in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Specializing in genre scenes, he was also a portrait painter for the nobility of the time, who appreciated being depicted in their opulent interiors.
Following the example of Eugène Boudin, he broadened his repertoire by painting beach scenes in Normandy.
His paintings are very interesting from a historical point of view, as they allow us to see the costumes and fashions of the period.
It is interesting to note that the women are protecting themselves from the sun, as a pale complexion was considered desirable at that time.
In this view of a lively Norman beach,very probably close to Deauville, the artist has captured a snapshot of the era.
Bourgeois families, dressed in their Sunday best, are enjoying the fresh air on a Norman beach.
We can see a maid holding a child in her arms, protecting him from the sun with a parasol.
Children are digging in the sand with shovels, while others are playing with hoops…
Men and women are wearing hats, even on the beach.
A beautiful representation of a slice of life of the French bourgeoisie at the end of the 19th century.
The Norman sky is also very well depicted, with its clouds perpetually rolling in the sea breeze.
Oil on panel, signed lower left, in a gilded wooden frame.
Unframed 9 x 16 inches
Framed 14½ x 22 inches