Sacré-Cœur from Montmartre Street
Painting on canvas, likely mounted to board or stretcher • Nina Breck (signed lower right)
Style & Movement
Mid-century Modern / Post-Impressionism with Naive/Fauvist influences
Medium & Technique
Oil on canvas, utilizing a post-impressionistic technique with flat planes of color, heavy impasto in the clouds, and thick, expressive brushwork
Creation Period
Mid-20th Century (circa 1940-1960)
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 24 x 18 inches, vertical portrait format
Subject Description
A street scene in the Montmartre district of Paris looking toward the dome of the Basilica of the Sacré-Cœur. The composition uses a steep uphill perspective with simplified architectural forms, bright primary colors on the facades, and a dramatic, cloudy sky. Iconographically, it represents the 'School of Paris' style favored by mid-century decorators and tourists.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good. The canvas shows a visible texture and the paint layer appears stable, though there are signs of age-related surface grime and slight yellowing of the varnish.
Estimated Market Value
$100 - $300 USD
Auction Estimate
$50 - $150 USD
Provenance History
Unknown; current retail tag suggests acquisition from an antique mall or decorative arts dealer (Vendor 166, Price $29.00).
Art Historical Significance
Represents the popular mid-century trend of 'Parisian street scenes' produced by expatriate or regional artists influenced by the School of Paris (Utrillo, etc.). While it holds decorative value, its historical significance is limited to the genre of regional mid-century expressive painting.
Notable Features
Bold signature of 'NINA BRECK' in the bottom right corner; vintage wooden frame with a linen-covered inset characteristic of the 1960s/70s style.
Condition Issues
Visible surface dust and minor frame wear. Some potential minor cracking in the heavier white impasto of the sky. The linen matting on the frame shows some discoloration/staining.
Conservation Recommendations
Light surface cleaning and a new coat of protective varnish if desired. Should be kept out of direct sunlight to prevent further fading of the greens and yellows.