Henry Latouche

HENRY LATOUCHE (France, 20th century).
Parisian scene.
Oil on panel.
Signed in the lower right corner.
Measurements: 36 x 26 cm; 54 x 44 cm (frame).
Henry Latouche was formed in contact with the impressionist and post-impressionist currents in vogue in Paris in the late nineteenth and early twentieth century. From them he assumed the free treatment of the brushstroke and color, and the interest in the urban landscape, as can be seen in the work we now present. It is a panoramic view of a Parisian boulevard, a view of modern life, because although the tall towers of what looks like the cathedral of Notre Dame occupy the right margin of the composition, the cars driving along the road and the busy pedestrians are the real protagonists. As are the vibrant lights of the evening sky and the street lamps. Both natural and artificial light intermingle and reflect off the wet pavement, adding dynamism and vibrancy to the scene. The artist employs a sure and firm drawing, complemented by a brushstroke where small juxtaposed touches of color predominate. However, the result is moderate, closer to the "Just milieu" school of painting than to the impressionists or post-impressionists.