Louis AUDOUIN 1883-1968 Orientalism Oil painting on wood panel signed

  

This is a work that can be described as a genre scene in Orientalist style from the interwar period or the mid-20th century (the artist, Louis Audouin, lived from 1883 to 1968). The work is an oil on wood panel depicting an outdoor scene in North Africa (Maghreb), characteristic of the Orientalist theme. The scene centers on two main figures.

In the foreground, a man dressed in a long white robe (djellaba) and wearing a turban is seated, leaning against a stone structure. Next to him stands a donkey loaded with baggage, typical of local transport. The background features architectural structures with characteristic arches of the region (probably a defensive wall or a traditional building), as well as a tree providing dense shade. The landscape is dry and dusty, evoking a public place like a square or the entrance to a medina or kasbah.

The painting uses a palette of earthy and warm colors (ochres, sands, browns) dominating, contrasting with the bright white of the man's clothing and the vivid blue of the sky. The treatment is realistic but with an impressionistic touch in the way light and shadows are captured, especially under the tree and on the ground. Brushstrokes are visible, yet the scene retains a good definition of shapes. Frame: The painting is presented in a carved wooden frame with geometric patterns and interlacing, which aligns with the Orientalist theme of the work. The style is clearly Orientalism.

This artistic movement, popular in Western Europe mainly in the 19th century but which persisted into the early 20th century, is characterized by the representation of subjects, landscapes, and scenes of daily life inspired by the Middle East and North Africa. Orientalist artists like Audouin often sought to depict a picturesque and romantic vision of these regions, focusing on traditions, architecture, costumes, and market or rest scenes like this one. The themes of travel and exoticism are central. Louis Audouin is indeed referenced for having painted North African scenes, notably in Morocco (such as the city of Salé).

The work of Louis Audouin is situated in the 20th century (he lived from 1883 to 1968). Titled at the bottom left “A l'abreuvoir Salé (Morocco).” Technique: Oil painting on wood panel signed.

Original sold by the artist. Dimensions of the oil painting on wood panel: height 40 cm, length 50 cm; dimensions of the wooden frame: Frame in oak, pyrograved, stamped Audouin, height 52 cm, length 62 cm.