47

PAUL LACROIX
American (1827-1869)
Floral Still Life with Shells
oil on board, signed, inscribed and dated lower left "P. Lacroix NY 66 "
17 1/2 x 11 1/2 inches

Provenance: A Little Rock, Arkansas estate; Private Collection, Tennessee.

Other Notes:
Paul Lacroix was an American painter of French or Swiss origin who was best known for his lush still life paintings, particularly florals. His realistic technique and allegorical elements hark back to the work of Dutch, German and French masters of the still life which were popular in mid-century America. Few facts are known about Lacroix but it is speculated that he trained or associated with Severin Roesen in New York prior to Roesen's departure to Pennsylvania.

The 19th century in America witnessed a revival in the attention to symbolism in elements traditionally chosen for still life paintings such as flowers, fruits, and other objects like musical instruments, tableware, shells, game animals, etc. Numerous books were written about the meaning of flowers in particular, known as 'floriographies,' often illustrated by young women artists. Lacroix's arrangement here with a bouquet of flowers and two shells evokes the themes of romance and love. The dominant oriental 'stargazer' lily in the center is traditionally thought to convey romance, wealth and prosperity while the pink roses and fuchsia echo the theme of love, perhaps innocent and young love. The forget-me-nots express a hope of enduring connection and partnering. The beautifully rendered shells in the lower right foreground depict the exotic purple-top tiger cowrie, a strong fertility reference, and a letter olive shell widely found in southern U.S. waters. Overall, the elements chosen in this lovely grouping of red, white and blue flowers with shells suggests a piece celebrating a marriage and may have been a gift to newlyweds.

tags: still life, French, oil painting, 19th century


  • Condition: Canvas: Not Applicable
    Condition: Very Good
    Restoration: Very Minor
    Frame: Quality Reproduction
    Comments:
    Very minor scattered restoration mostly to edges.

    Framed dimensions - 23 x 17 x 2 inches


    In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Shannon's is merely a subjective qualified opinion. Frames on all paintings are sold "As Is". Frames may need some conservation.

    NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE

Accepted Forms of Payment:

American Express, MasterCard, Money Order / Cashiers Check, Personal Check, Visa, Wire Transfer

Shipping

As a convenience to the Buyer, Shannon's LLC will make a referral
for packing and shipping. For a preliminary quote you may contact Jeff Von Flatern at [email protected] or 203-453-8866.
Shipping is at the request, expense, and risk
of the Buyer, and Shannon's assumes no responsibility for the
items or the timing of delivery. Insurance for in transit items is the
responsibility of the buyer.

April 29, 2021 6:00 PM EDT
Milford, CT, US

Shannon's

You agree to pay a buyer's premium of up to 27% and any applicable taxes and shipping.

View full terms and conditions

Bid Increments
From: To: Increments:
$0 $499 $25
$500 $999 $50
$1,000 $1,999 $100
$2,000 $4,999 $250
$5,000 $9,999 $500
$10,000 $19,999 $1,000
$20,000 $49,999 $2,000
$50,000 $99,999 $5,000
$100,000 + $10,000