Effet du soir-Honfleur 1906
Theodore Earl Butler (1861-1936)
Title : Effet du Soir : Honfleur : Le Vieux bassin ; Honfleur, le soir.
Oil on Canvas
Size: 48 by 73 cm
Signed and dated lower right, T.E Butler, 06[1906]
Back of the canvas, old tag,”TE Butler, Giverny par Vernon, Eure, France”, written by
Theodore Earl Butler
Provenance:
Estate of the Artist by descent through the family, Jean Marie Toulgouat, Theodore Earl
Butler’s grandson.
Acquired By Doctor Marshall, Giverny, directly from Jean Marie Toulgouat, circa 1970’s.
Estate Sale, Doctor Marshall, Brioult Enchères, Vernon, June 6, 2023
Exhibition :
1907 “Société des Artistes Indépendants, Catalogue de la 23 -ème Exposition,20 Mars –
30 Avril 1907.” Number, 824 or 825, “Effet du Soir (Honfleur).
1908 “Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts
one hundred – third Annual Exhibition”
Philadelphia: Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts,
January 20 – February 29, 1908, Gallery F, 505 “Effet du Soir: Honfleur.”
1908 « Salle Legrip, Rouen » Exposition T.E. Butler
20 Octobre – 3 Novembre 1908″
« Le Vieux bassin, Honfleur, le soir », Number 13.
Theodore Earl Butler painted a notable piece titled “Port of Honfleur – Evening, 1906.” This painting captures the charm and atmosphere of the port town of Honfleur in Normandy, France, during the evening hours. The port of Honfleur in 1906 was a bustling maritime town located in Normandy, France.
Honfleur’s port also offered breathtaking views of the estuary where the Seine River meets the English Channel.
During that time, the port of Honfleur was an active trading hub, characterized by a lively
waterfront and a vibrant maritime industry. The town’s economy thrived on activities such as fishing, shipbuilding, and maritime commerce. The port bustled with fishermen
bringing in their catches, merchants conducting trade, and sailors preparing their vessels for journeys to distant lands. Traditional fishing boats, known as “chalutiers,” could be seen alongside larger vessels used for trade and transportation.
The port’s architecture was typically composed of quaint, colorful buildings lining the waterfront, creating a charming backdrop for the maritime activities taking place. The air was filled with the sounds of seagulls, the creaking of ship masts, and the chatter of sailors and merchants. The waterfront was animated with the colors of boats, nets, and fishing equipment, creating a vibrant visual scene
The port of Honfleur retained much of its historical charm and architectural heritage. The iconic Lieutenancy building, dating back to the 18th century, stood as a prominent feature overlooking the harbor. The famous Saint Catherine’s Church, constructed entirely of wood and dating back to the 15th century, added to the town’s unique character.
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“Port of Honfleur – Evening” is post impressionistic painting where Theodore Earl Butler Butler skillfully portrays the play of light and color. He captures the reflections of lights in the water, showcasing the shimmering and dynamic nature of the scene. The interplay between the water, the sky, and the surrounding landscape provided inspiration for Theodore Earl Butler seeking to capture the beauty and tranquility of the area. The painting y exhibits vibrant hues and loose brushwork, which are characteristic of the impressionist style.
“Port of Honfleur – Evening” is a testament to Butler’s ability to convey the ambiance and mood of a specific moment in time. In addition to this night scene in Honfleur , Butler also painted at night, the bridge of Vernon, the port of Treport, a small coastal town in Normandy but also Place de Rome in Paris at night.
By Appoinment only
artgiverny@gmail.com