Paul Leduc (1876-1943)
PRICE ON REQUEST
Vue de l’église sainte Madeleine, Martiques
Oil on canvas
Belgium, ca 1900
Ornamental frame
60 x 80 cm / 80 x 100 cm
Signed and dated lower right:
Paul Leduc '19
Excellent condition
Church at Martiques
The 'View on the church of Saint Madeleine at Martiques' is a beautiful depiction of the coastal town of Martigues, often referred to as the “Venice of Provence.”
It's is a beautiful example of Impressionist art. This painting captures the essence of the church in Martigues with a focus on light and color, which are key characteristics of the Impressionist style.
Atmosphere
Leduc uses vibrant colors and light to create a lively atmosphere. The play of light on the church's facade and the surrounding environment is a hallmark of Impressionism.
The scene captures a specific moment in time, emphasizing the transient effects of light and weather. This creates a sense of immediacy.
Technique
The painting features loose and visible brushstrokes, giving it a sense of movement and spontaneity. This technique helps to convey the artist's immediate impression of the scene.
Subject
Impressionists often depicted everyday scenes and landscapes. Leduc's choice to paint a local church in Martigues reflects this focus on ordinary subjects.
Paul Leduc (1876-1943)
Early Life and Education
Paul Leduc was born in La Louvière, Belgium. He began his artistic training under Jean Coosemans in Tervuren, near Brussels. He furthered his education at the Academy of Mons under Antoine Bourlard from 1891 to 18961. Leduc also studied with Albert Baertsoen at the NHISKA, where he learned composition and the technique of applying paint in thick layers.
Impressionism and Lumininism
Leduc’s style evolved significantly over his career. His early works were influenced by the muted, misty light of northern Europe. However, after traveling to the Italian Adriatic and the Mediterranean south of France, his palette became more vibrant, and his brushwork more dynamic.
Leduc’s paintings are known for their rich, luminous colors and his ability to capture the effects of light, particularly in water scenes.
He often used the technique of a palette knife to apply thick layers of paint, creating texture and depth in his works.
Career
Leduc’s career was marked by numerous exhibitions and accolades. His works were displayed in prestigious venues such as the Venice International Art Exhibition.
He painted various European locales, including Bruges, Dordrecht, and parts of Holland, as well as the Mediterranean coast.
Later Life
Leduc spent his later years in Schaerbeek, Brussels, where he continued to paint until his death in 19432. His legacy is preserved through his vibrant and evocative depictions of landscapes and urban scenes, which continue to be admired for their beauty and technique.
Museums
- Brussel, Royal Museum of Fine Arts
- Brussel, Museum of Ixelles
- Moms Museum of Fine Arts
- Charleroi, Museum of Fine Arts