Place Gaillon
Painting on paper or board • Antony de Montfort (signed 'De Montfort')
Style & Movement
Mid-Century Illustration / Naive Art / School of Paris
Medium & Technique
Gouache or tempera with black ink outlines; flat color application and graphic lines
Creation Period
Mid-20th Century (circa 1940-1960)
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 16 x 12 inches; Portrait orientation
Subject Description
A bustling Parisian square (Place Gaillon) featuring a central tree in a circular plot, surrounded by buildings including the 'Hotel de Lyon', 'Vins', and a 'Cafe'. Small, stylized figures and street lamps populate the foreground.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good (visible toning and slight warping to the support material)
Estimated Market Value
$200 - $400 USD
Auction Estimate
$150 - $300 USD
Provenance History
Likely acquired as a souvenir or through a decorative art gallery in Paris during the mid-20th century.
Art Historical Significance
Representing the mid-century trend of decorative Parisian scenes produced for the tourist market, mirroring the popular style of artists like Maurice Utrillo but in a more graphic, commercial manner.
Notable Features
Bold typography for the location name 'PL. GAILLON' at bottom center and signature 'DE MONTFORT' at bottom right; characteristic thick black calligraphic outlines.
Condition Issues
Visible browning/oxidation of the paper board (acidic toning), slight fading of pigments, and a distress-painted frame that may be non-original or specifically aged for effect.
Conservation Recommendations
Remounting with acid-free materials, UV-protective glass, and placement away from direct sunlight to prevent further fading of the gouache.