Paul Courreau (1875-1944) Rainy Evening On The Dronne In Brantôme Dordogne

Paul COURREAU
(1875 Bordeaux - 1944 Talence)
Rainy evening on the Dronne at Brantôme
Oil on panel
H. 28 cm; L. 36 cm
Signed lower right

Born in Bordeaux, Paul Courreau, emboldened by the landscapes of his department, only created… landscapes throughout his career. Seaside going as far as Biarritz, earthly views of Bazadais or Médoc, he was attracted by the simplicity of reliefs and natural images. He only explored Aquitaine, also going to Landes and Périgord, with the exception of the period of the Great War in which he participated and from which he brought back works. No works depicting war or soldiers appear to be known, but desolate landscapes of the Somme have been exhibited. From 1903, he exhibited in Bordeaux in various salons and artistic societies, until the year preceding his death in 1944. According to short press articles of the time, he seemed to be a drawing teacher, and devoted himself to his passion outside of his official activity.

Our painting titled “Evening of rain on the Dronne” is located in Brantôme, an area apparently little visited by the artist. The atmosphere of the end of the day lit from the west presents us with dark vegetation weighed down by late summer rain, contrasted by the silver sky. Accustomed to rendering atmospheres, Courreau is here at the heart of his art.