A work of art which, while busy with sheer compositional subject matter, bequeaths a calming propriety when enjoyed. Believed strongly to be a harbor along the southern French coast, it has been suggested that it is a stage of the harbor of S Incheste along the Golfe du Lion, or possibly La Ciote just southeast of Marseille. The red Mediterranean roof tiles and multiple story building support these theories.
Wherever they may actually be, the ships possess a striking and fascinating array of bright colors of both hull and sail. Red ochre and rusty brown above with vibrant greens and blues below, the various fishing and leisure craft cast color snippets which dance among the water reflections. Much is accomplished with his varied texture application and impasto thicknesses.
Lecomte toured the entirety of the French coasts for his government position with the naval ministry. His known paintings from 1931 until his untimely passing in 1950 are as a near-complete record of these areas as any other in existence. The two world wars during his lifetime had sombered the populace, and the post-modern world would soon take art beyond its previous frontiers. Lecomte chose to show life as normal and a continuing process, not to be overly disturbed with the troubles of the moment. His work is a celebration of human spirit and the marine heritage of France.
Stamped Verso on Stretcher: "The Copyright on this Painting Is ReservedBy the U.S.P. & L. Co., Fine Arts Department".
