Charles Levier “2 Bouquets” Original Oil on Canvas, Mid-20th Century

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Original mid-century oil on canvas by French artist Charles Levier (1920–2003), titled “2 Bouquets.”

A vibrant modernist still life depicting … Read more Original mid-century oil on canvas by French artist Charles Levier (1920–2003), titled “2 Bouquets.”

A vibrant modernist still life depicting two exuberant floral arrangements alongside a loaf of bread and small vessel, rendered in Levier’s distinctive combination of strong linear drawing, flattened forms and expressive color. Saturated reds, coral, blue and turquoise are balanced by ochre, cream and earthy brown tones, creating a particularly graphic and decorative composition.

Signed “Levier” at the lower right. The reverse of the canvas is inscribed “2 Bouquets” and additionally signed “Ch. Levier.” Came from the estate of a collector who was personally acquainted with Levier, other Levier's from this collector are listed.

Presented in an ornate gilt frame with carved scroll and foliate decoration, a linen liner and narrow gilt inner molding. The aged gilt surface retains attractive variation, rubbing and patina consistent with its age.

Levier was known for his stylized interpretations of figures, Mediterranean scenes and still lifes, combining elements of French modernism and Post-Impressionism with a highly recognizable use of line and 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."

Artist: Charles Levier (French, 1920–2003)
Title: 2 Bouquets
Medium: Oil on canvas
Artwork dimensions: 27" W × 21" H Frame dimensions: 37"W x 31"H x D"1.75
Period: Mid-20th century
Signature: Signed lower right; titled and signed again on reverse
Subject: Floral still life
Style: French Modernist / Post-Impressionist See less