Matin d'été (Summer Morning)
Original watercolor painting on paper • Danielle Lebrun (signed lower right)
Style & Movement
Regionalist Impressionism / Decorative Illustration
Medium & Technique
Watercolor and pencil on paper; utilizing wet-on-dry and wet-on-wet techniques with architectural graphite underdrawing
Creation Period
Mid to late 20th century (circa 1970-1990)
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 12 x 16 inches (visible); rectangular landscape format within a larger mount
Subject Description
A Mediterranean coastal scene, likely the French Riviera or Italian Lake district, featuring colorful villas with flower-laden balconies, a church tower, and small rowing boats moored at a stone quay. The work depicts a serene, sunny morning atmosphere.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Poor to Fair; substantial structural damage present
Estimated Market Value
$50 - $150 USD (impacted significantly by damage)
Auction Estimate
$30 - $80 USD
Provenance History
Likely acquired from a local gallery or art market in France or North America; currently in a private collection
Art Historical Significance
A representative example of late 20th-century decorative watercolor painting popular for tourism and interior design. It reflects the continued appeal of romanticized European landscapes in the post-war era.
Notable Features
Hand-inscribed title 'Matin d'été' in the lower left margin; distinct signature 'Danielle Lebrun' in the lower right; original gold-leafed wood frame with significant wear.
Condition Issues
Major glass breakage across the center; heavy water staining and foxing in the lower left corner and across the margins; potential acidity from the matting; visible grime on the paper surface.
Conservation Recommendations
Immediate removal of broken glass to prevent surface scratches. Professional cleaning to address foxing and water stains. Re-framing using acid-free materials and UV-protective glass.