École de Paris French Still Life with Sunflowers & Lemon by Gabriel Zendel

A joyful French still life that feels like sunlight with impeccable taste. A full bouquet of sunflowers, loosely gathered in a glass, floats against warm blocks of color, while a half lemon sits in the corner like a bright little wink. The palette is bold but controlled, and the paint is beautifully tactile. This is the kind of work that makes you want to step closer. It has that rare quality we look for at Raw Brush: immediate charm from across the room, then real reward up close. The brushwork is confident and intentionally worked, not overly polished. It feels lived-in, not manufactured. In a kitchen, breakfast nook, or any space needing uplifting energy, it brings warmth without asking the room to do all the work.

Gabriel Zendel (1906–1992) belonged to that vibrant Paris ecosystem of the 20th century. His work entered institutional collections; the Musée d’Art Moderne de la Ville de Paris, museums in Rennes and Nevers, and others (Libourne, Le Havre, Honfleur, Menton, Rodez, etc.) are documented as holding his works. He also exhibited extensively at major Paris Salons (Indépendants, d’Automne, Tuileries) and in international shows including New York (Durand‑Ruel) and the International Art Exhibition in Tokyo. His pieces attract collectors seeking authenticated Ecole de Paris heritage. What makes Zendel so collectible is his ability to marry structure with pleasure.

Why We Love It

We absolutely love the energy and color in this piece. The sunflowers feel full and generous, the red ground gives it confidence, and that half lemon adds a sharp, sunny note that keeps everything feeling fresh. It has the kind of paint surface you notice in person, tactile and alive.

And yes, it’s also a smart collector’s moment: this is your chance to own a work by Gabriel Zendel, an École de Paris artist whose work is documented in museum collections, at a size that slips beautifully into everyday life.

FR: joie de vivre (the joy of living)
Because that is exactly what this painting gives you, every time you pass it.

Key Features:

• Medium: Oil on canvas
• Era: mid-century 
• Signature: Signed by the artist
• Dimensions: 16.1 × 10.6
• Condition: Excellent condition. Please see photos for details.