Albert Guillaume 19th Century Original Antique Paris France Franco Prussian Battle Belle Epoque Genre Illustration Oil Painting French Navy Humorous Caricature Artwork
Albert Guillaume (1873 –1942), original late 19th-century antique humorous French illustration battle painting of a French Navy crewman on a beach, tripping an officer with a rope/ship tie. This specific battle portrayed is likely a humorous take on a scene in the Franco-Prussian War, which was ongoing when the artist created this painting. In the background, on the beach, you may locate the statue of Marianne as a symbolic reference to freedom from tyranny and individual liberty; (a rendition was given to the United States that is our Statue of Liberty). The painting is in good and stable condition, however, there is an isolated area to the far right that may need restorations. There have been no previous restorations performed; (all paint present is original to the painting). The painting's measurements are approximately 10.65" X 16.3", plus the original antique 19th-century carved wood frame.
Albert Guillaume, born on 14 February 1873 in Paris, France, was a renowned French painter and caricaturist who rose to prominence during the Belle Époque era. While he is most noted for his iconic poster art, Guillaume also excelled in oil paintings, exemplified by his notable work "Soirée parisienne," a captivating portrayal of Parisian high society.
Guillaume's artistic career flourished amidst the international poster craze of the Gay Nineties, a period where Parisian boulevards transformed into vibrant art galleries. Inspired by the works of Jules Chéret, a leading figure in poster painting, Guillaume contributed significantly to this artistic movement. His posters, characterized by vivid colors and imaginative designs, added a dynamic flair to the Parisian streetscape.
In addition to his poster art, Guillaume gained acclaim for his satirical drawings published in popular Parisian humor magazines like Gil Blas, Le Rire, L'Assiette au Beurre, and Le Figaro illustré. Through his caricatures, Guillaume humorously critiqued the social, cultural, and political landscape of French society, providing insightful commentary during a period marked by widespread corruption and governance challenges.
Guillaume's artistic talent earned him recognition, including a bronze medal at the Universal Exhibition of 1900 in Paris. His illustrations were widely published in albums by esteemed firms such as "Ernest Maindron" and "Librairie illustrée, J. Tallandier." Notably, he contributed to three albums of military cartoons, with one edition prefaced by Georges Courteline in 1896.
Tragically, Albert Guillaume passed away in 1942 during the occupation, in the rural village of Faux in the Dordogne département of France, leaving behind a lasting legacy in the world of art and caricature.
Albert Guillaume, attributed
(1873-1942)
French Navy - Franco-Prussian War
Illustration Painting of Soldiers
Oil on Canvas
The painting measures approximately 10.65" X 16.3", plus the original antique late 19th-century to early 20th century, carved wood frame
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