Mid-Century Modernist Oil Painting of Easels and Canvas by Gaudes, 1956

A striking mid-century oil on board by the artist Gaudes, dated 1956, presenting an atmospheric and modernist interpretation of the artist’s studio. The composition depicts a group of easels arranged against a muted green wall, their angular forms and stark shadows evoking the quiet anticipation of creative work. Executed with a restrained palette and strong graphic geometry, the painting captures both the physical presence and symbolic potential of the artist’s tools.

Adding to its rarity, the reverse of the board features a second oil painting—a waterside scene with rustic buildings, trees, and figures along a dockside, executed in a looser, impressionistic style. This double-sided presentation offers a fascinating dialogue between two different painterly approaches: one abstracted and modern, the other lyrical and representational.

Signed lower right Gaudes and dated ’56 on the easel composition.

Details

• Artist: Gaudes
• Date: 1956
• Medium: Oil on board (double-sided painting)
• Dimensions: 19” H x 25” W
• Frame: Period wooden frame
• Signed: Gaudes ’56 (front, easel composition)

Condition Report

Overall very good condition with age-appropriate craquelure, surface wear, and tonal shifts consistent with mid-20th century oils on board. The frame is stable with light wear at edges. The reverse painting shows surface toning and handling consistent with storage/display.

Provenance

Private collection