Under the Palm Trees of Madagascar by Paul Léon Bléger, 1930s

Under the Palm Trees of Madagascar', oil on board, by Paul Léon Bléger (circa 1930s). A stunning work of art depicting indigenous inhabitants of 1930s Madagascar making their way through a lightly covered pathway lined with palm trees. The artist has captured this scene with precise painting and impressive detail. As background, Madagascar broke away from the Indian subcontinent around 88 million years ago, allowing native plants and animals to evolve in relative isolation. As a result, it is a biodiversity hotspot; over 90% of its wildlife is found nowhere else on Earth. The island's diverse ecosystems and unique wildlife are threatened by the encroachment of the rapidly growing human population and other environmental threats. Archaeological evidence of the earliest human foraging on the island may date up to 10,000 years ago and human settlement occurred between 350 BC and 550 AD by Indianized Austronesian peoples, arriving on outrigger canoes from Indonesia. This piece therefore serves both as a stunning artwork and a historical record depicting its unspoiled environment and life in the early 20th Century. The painting is in good vintage condition and has been newly framed with a linen slip. It is signed by the artist in the lower right hand corner: 'P. Bléger'. Please view the accompanying photos carefully to best appreciate its condition and style.

About the Artist: Paul Léon Bléger (1889-1981) was a painter of portraits and landscapes. Born in Mulhouse, France, he travelled extensively throughout his country and overseas. He was a member of the Society of French Artists regularly exhibiting at the Palace Salon between 1922-36 and winning a number of art prizes and medals between 1927-28. Dimensions with frame: H 58 cm / 22.8'' W 50 cm / 19.7'' Dimensions without frame : H 45 cm / 17.7'' W 37 cm / 14.6''