Charles Levier “Village Corde” Original Oil on Canvas, Mid-20th Century

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Original mid-century oil on canvas by French-American artist Charles Levier (1920–2003), titled “Village Corde.” (Corse is likely what is being … Read more Original mid-century oil on canvas by French-American artist Charles Levier (1920–2003), titled “Village Corde.” (Corse is likely what is being referred to) Acquired by an acquaintance of Levier who collected this and several other pieces which are also being listed on Chairish.

This atmospheric Mediterranean harbor scene depicts fishing boats pulled along the shore before a coastal village, rendered in Levier's distinctive modernist style. Strong linear outlines, flattened architectural forms and expressive passages of pale aqua, cream, ochre, navy and muted red give the composition a distinctly postwar French character.

Signed “Levier” at the lower left. The reverse of the canvas is additionally inscribed “Village Corde” (Corse) and signed “Ch. Levier.”
Levier was particularly known for his stylized views of French and Mediterranean ports, coastal villages and figures. His work combines elements of Post-Impressionism and modernist abstraction, with a recognizable emphasis on drawing, angular forms and restrained but sophisticated color.

Charles Levier was a French-American painter celebrated for his vibrant, modernist interpretations of still lifes, landscapes, and figures. Born in Corsica, France, Levier developed an early passion for art, studying at the Ecole Nationale Superieure des Arts Decoratifs for private studies in Paris before World War II. During the war, he served in the French Army and later worked with the U.S. Office of Strategic Services, an experience that brought him to America and deepened his international perspective. After the war, he split his time between France and the United States, a duality reflected in his work, which combines European sophistication with the boldness of mid-20th-century American art.

Levier's paintings are known for their distinctive use of color and clean, geometric compositions. His subjects often include elegant women, urban scenes, and serene interiors, all infused with a sense of quiet refinement and timeless beauty. Over his career, Levier exhibited widely in galleries across Europe and the United States, earning a devoted following. His works have been acquired by prestigious collectors, including celebrities and institutions, solidifying his legacy as a bridge between French and American modern art. Today, his works are housed in the Museum of Modern Art in Paris, the Menton Museum in Paris, the Atlanta Museum, the Seattle Museum, the Evansville Museum, the New Orleans Museum, and the San Diego Museum.

Presented in an ornate period giltwood frame with carved foliate and scroll decoration, linen liner and narrow gilt inner molding. The warm, aged finish of the frame complements the painting beautifully and gives the piece substantial decorative presence.

Artist: Charles Levier (French, 1920–2003)
Title: Village Corde (Corse)
Medium: Oil on canvas
Size: 24x30 unframed 33x39 framed
Period: Mid-20th century, likely circa 1960s–1970s
Signature: Signed lower left; additionally titled and signed on reverse
Subject: Coastal village / harbor with boats
Style: French Modernist / Post-Impressionist

The painting remains in good vintage condition with expected age-related surface characteristics, including areas of craquelure and variation in the painted surface visible under close inspection. There is a visible impression and fine line crack where the stretchers have been in contact with the canvas. The gilt frame shows age-appropriate wear, rubbing and losses to the finish that contribute to its antique character. Please review photographs closely as they form part of the condition description. See less