Artwork
The Banks of the River Durance at Saint Paul

The Banks of the River Durance at Saint Paul is an oil painting by the Realist artist Paul Guigou. It dates from 1864 and is held in the collection of the Art Institute of Chicago.
About this work
Overview
The Banks of the River Durance at Saint Paul is a painting created by Paul Guigou in 1864 using oil paint. It represents a tranquil riverside scene.
Subject & Meaning
The painting depicts a serene landscape with a calm river, rocks along its banks, and rolling hills in the distance. The scene is characteristic of Guigou's focus on landscapes from his native Provence region.
Technique & Style
Guigou's use of light and shadow creates depth and texture in the painting. The bold and expressive brushstrokes convey a sense of energy and movement, aligning with the Realism movement.
History & Provenance
Paul Guigou, trained under Émile Loubon, worked as a notary clerk before moving to Paris in 1863. He was born into a wealthy family of farmers and notaries in 1834.
Artist & collection
Artist
Paul Camille Guigou (15 February 1834 – 21 December 1871) was a French landscape painter.



















