The Lighthouse at Honfleur (Le Phare de Honfleur)
Painting on canvas • Georges Seurat
Style & Movement
Neo-Impressionism / Pointillism
Medium & Technique
Oil on canvas using the Pointillist/Divisionist technique; characterized by small, distinct dots of color applied in patterns to form an image.
Creation Period
1886
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 66.7 x 81.9 cm (26.3 x 32.3 in); Landscape format
Subject Description
A seascape depicting the coastal town of Honfleur in Normandy. The composition features a prominent stone lighthouse towering over a sandy beach, with a blue building and a beached boat to the right. The work explores the optical effects of light and color on the water and shore.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Very Good (based on institutional records); the surface appears stable with well-preserved pigment vibrancy.
Estimated Market Value
$40,000,000 - $60,000,000 USD (Estimated based on rare Seurat masterpieces appearing at auction)
Auction Estimate
$35,000,000 - $55,000,000 USD
Provenance History
Formerly in the collection of the artist's family; various private collections including the collection of Mr. and Mrs. Paul Mellon; currently held by the National Gallery of Art, Washington, D.C.
Art Historical Significance
A seminal work of Neo-Impressionism; it exemplifies Seurat's scientific approach to color theory and mark-making, departing from the spontaneity of Impressionism toward a more structured, methodical aesthetic.
Notable Features
The use of a painted 'border' within the canvas is a signature Seurat technique used to enhance the internal color contrast of the central image.
Condition Issues
Possible minor surface craquelure consistent with age; some slight darkening of certain pigments (such as yellows/greens) may occur over long periods, though currently well-monitored.
Conservation Recommendations
Maintain in a climate-controlled environment (50% RH, 20°C); UV-filtered lighting; periodic assessment by a professional conservator to monitor for pigment shifts.