Mid-Century Modernist Style Watercolor & Ink Painting "Paris L’Arc Du Carrousel Le Louvre" - by Callahan

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Description

This modernist style watercolor and ink painting of a street scene set in architectural Paris features people bustling around the … Read more This modernist style watercolor and ink painting of a street scene set in architectural Paris features people bustling around the Place du Carrousel in front of L'Arc de Triomphe du Carrousel at left and the Louvre Museum (entrance) just opposite. While the work has a sketch-like sensibility, the artist laid down the wash of vivid colors with a surety of hand that also lends a charming almost lyrical quality with a touch of whimsy that produces a very satisfying result.

The historical triumphant arch which takes center stage in this work was commissioned by Napoleon to commemorate his military victories, and was built in the Neoclassical style in1806-1808; it should not be confused with its more famous and much larger cousin, L'Arc de Triomphe at the far end of the Champs Elysees.

The work is artist signed on the front lower left with an indecipherable first initial followed by the surname Callahan. There are no markings visible on the painting reverse as currently framed.

Although the artist's full identity is unknown it is believed that he (or she) was an American artist active in the U.S. (including in California) and France primarily in the late 1950's through 1970's.

Artist: Callahan
Artist signed: “(I.?) Callahan" on front lower right
Title: 'Paris L’Arc du Carrousel Le Louvre' (artist-written on front lower left)
Medium: Watercolor and ink
Ground: Canvas board
Style: Modernist
Period: Mid-century
Year: Circa 1960's
Provenance: Private collection, Beverly Hills, CA since 1970

Framed size: 23.75 in H x 29.75 in W x 2.25 in D
Viewable image (painting): 17.5 in H x 23.5 in W

Included framing, original to the work, consists of an ornate carved wood frame with an antiqued whitewashed finish and beige linen matting. See less