French Post-Impressionist Artist, Petit Port du Havre, 1965, Oil on Canvas, Framed

M.O. Cahierre.
French ( Mid-20th Century ).
Petit Port du Havre, 1965.
Oil on Canvas.
Signed & Dated Lower Left.
Image size 14.2 inches x 21.1 inches ( 36cm x 53.5cm ).
Frame size 19.9 inches x 26.6 inches ( 50.5cm x 67.5cm ).

This original painting is by the French artist whose signature we read as M.O. Cahierre and is dated 1965. The painting is annotated on the reverse by the previous owner collector with the same information. It is also titled on the reverse.
The painting is presented and supplied in its original wooden period frame (which is shown in these photographs).
We have chosen not to attempt to improve on the natural aesthetic of the frame.
This vintage painting is in good condition, commensurate with its age and is being supplied in an untouched condition with no cleaning, restoration or conservation. It is ready to hang and display.
The painting is signed and dated lower left.

This is an original oil on canvas painting of the port of Le Havre painted in 1965. It is entitled Petit Port du Havre and is signed by the French artist in the lower left section. The work in a loose post-impressionist style is certainly created by the hand of a confident and accomplished artist and performed en plein air.

The style is post-impressionistic, with those long loose lines with the brush, and a bold use of colour and light. The scene depicts many small fishing and sailing vessels within the harbour of Le Havre . It is a bright and sunny day, and the reflection of the water plays upon the sky. This is a charming and very atmospheric piece which would add life and interest to any room.

The style of this painting, in the first instance, does suggest a follower of Eugène Boudin, who was known for his maritime scenes, particularly depictions of harbours and coastal landscapes. Boudin’s influence is evident in the loose, gestural brushwork, the focus on light effects, and the atmospheric quality of the scene. The depiction of sails catching the wind, reflections in the water, and the emphasis on sky and sea are all reminiscent of his works.

While the palette in this painting is slightly more muted and the brushstrokes more expressive compared to Boudin’s often delicate handling of light, it retains the spontaneous and lively spirit of French Impressionism. The artist may have been directly inspired by Boudin’s coastal themes or may have been part of a later movement that admired and echoed his style.

Aside from Eugène Boudin, this painting also shows influences from several other notable artists. These being:

Claude Monet – As one of Boudin’s most famous protégés, Monet’s early works, especially his harbour scenes and regatta paintings, share a similar fascination with light, water, and atmospheric effects. The loose brushwork and reflections in this painting are reminiscent of Monet’s approach to capturing fleeting moments.

Albert Marquet – Known for his simplified forms and muted colour palettes, Marquet’s maritime scenes often display a tranquil quality. The way the boats are arranged in the harbour and the vertical masts create a sense of rhythm and balance, much like in Marquet’s works.

Raoul Dufy – This painting also evokes the playful, dynamic compositions of Dufy. His vibrant harbour scenes often feature bold lines and vibrant colour contrasts. While the colours here are more subdued, the expressive movement of the sails and water echoes Dufy’s lively energy.

Johan Barthold Jongkind – Jongkind, a precursor to Impressionism, was particularly skilled in capturing maritime settings with atmospheric effects. His influence might be seen in the depiction of the sky, water reflections, and the moody color palette.

The artist behind this painting has likely drawn from this collective tradition, combining influences from both Impressionism and Post-Impressionism, with a particular focus on the sea’s movement and the ever-changing light.