Paul Fischer

PAUL FISCHER (Denmark, 1860-1934).
"Three Women on the Beach," ca. 1915.
Oil on canvas.
Signed in the lower left corner.
Measurements: 42 x 62 cm; 62 x 82 cm (frame).

In this luminous beach painting, Paul Fischer reveals his deep interest in the effects of sunlight and the depiction of figures in open space. This genre, which resonated deeply with the Danish bourgeoisie for its intrinsic beauty, its vision of modern life and its eminently pleasing style, catapulted the painter to remarkable popularity and success in his time. The work is inscribed in a theme of jovial and carefree spirit, in perfect harmony with the artist's extensive career, allowing him to deploy his masterful technique. A silver light floods the scene, bathing it in an aura of serene placidity. The bodies, one of them nude, are worked with exquisite delicacy, paying special attention to the play of volumes that make up a magnificent plastic exercise, worthy of the most spectacular paintings of this Danish artist.

Paul Fischer was a painter known mainly for his urban scenes, landscapes, portraits and, in particular, for his depictions of bright interiors and scenes of daily life in Copenhagen. He is an important figure of Naturalism and Symbolism in Danish art, although he is also associated with a style that often evokes the Belle Époque. His training was mainly self-taught, although he briefly attended the Royal Danish Academy of Fine Arts. His works are in important collections and museums in Denmark, such as the National Gallery of Denmark (Statens Museum for Kunst - SMK) and the Copenhagen Museum. They are also in private collections and occasionally appear in international auctions.