Léon Antoine Brard

LÉON ANTOINE BRARD (France, 1830-1902).
"Views of the Nile".
Pair of oil paintings on panel.
Signed in the lower right corner.
Measurements: 22 x 41 cm (each); 40,5 x 59,5 cm (frame).

Pair of oil paintings on panel conceived to be exhibited together, as they represent two complementary views of the Nile at different times of the day.

One of the panels captures the warm, dramatic light of sunset. The sky is dominated by an intense orange and golden glow on the horizon, fading to a pale turquoise above. Clouds, tinted by the setting sun, add depth to the scene. The focal point is a large leafy tree on the riverbank, which is cut backlit against the bright sky. On the left, a group of cattle (possibly water buffalo) are crossing the river, guided by a figure, adding a touch of everyday life. On the right, a traditional Egyptian boat is seen moored near the shore, behind which a settlement with more palm trees is hinted at. This is a bucolic and picturesque scene that idealizes life along the Nile, centered on the spectacular light.

The second panel presents a cooler and more serene light, probably at dawn. The sky is a pale blue that degrades into a soft pink and orange tone on the horizon. The gaze is guided by a large falua with white sail unfurled sailing down the river. The left bank is dominated by monumental ruins of a temple, surrounded by palm trees. In the distance, barely visible in the mist of dawn, stand the unmistakable silhouettes of the three pyramids of Giza. This painting focuses on the monumental and historical aspect of Egypt. The combination of ancient ruins, pyramids and the Nile creates a deeply evocative and romantic composition.

Léon Antoine Brard was a French artist born in Caen in 1830. Brard was a multi-faceted artist, known for both his work as a painter and ceramist. He settled in Tours around 1859. He was a disciple of the celebrated ceramist Charles-Jean Avisseau and is known for his trompe-l'œil (trompe l'oeil) plates and ceramic pieces, often following the Renaissance style of Bernard Palissy (with realistic depictions of fish, reptiles and plants). As a painter, in addition to these Egyptian views, he is known for landscapes and views of European cities, especially Venice.