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French Mid Century Modern Original Still Life by Bernard Gantner (1953)
French Mid Century Modern Original Still Life by Bernard Gantner (1953)
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Dated 1953, this piece comes from Bernard Gantner’s early period, offering a more unusual glimpse of the artist before the landscape works that later became central to his reputation. It has the confidence of a serious modernist work: restrained, intelligent, and far more memorable than a conventional still life.
What gives this painting its power is the balance between intimacy and structure. The subject belongs to the familiar world of the tabletop, yet Gantner gives it an architectural rhythm through strong shadow shapes and carefully placed forms. The result feels graphic in places, almost abstract, while still holding onto the warmth of a hand-painted interior scene.
The palette is beautifully controlled, with earthy reds, softened neutrals, deep darks, and a small note of blue working together in a way that feels sophisticated and intentional. For buyers who appreciate early works by listed artists, this signed and dated painting brings character, history, and visual intelligence to a space without feeling overly decorative.
About the Artist
Bernard Gantner, 1928–2018, was a French painter born in Belfort, near the Alsace region. He became known for atmospheric landscape paintings, particularly winter scenes, as well as lithographs and illustrated works. His career gained momentum in the 1950s, and in 1961 he received the Critic’s Prize, followed by numerous exhibitions in France and abroad.
Why We Love It
This painting caught our eye immediately, but what made it impossible to ignore was how often we kept returning to it. It is the kind of painting that looks beautiful at first glance, then becomes more interesting and intriguing the longer you live with it.
Among many beautiful works, this 1953 still life by Bernard Gantner had a particular pull. The colors are striking yet beautifully held together, and the composition has an elegance that does not feel obvious or expected. Familiar objects are arranged with an unusual sense of structure and shadow, giving the piece a modern, memorable presence.
Key Features:
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Medium: Oil on wood panel
- Period: Dated 1953
- Signature: Signed by the artist
- Dimensions: 25.6" x 21.3"
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Condition: Great condition. See pictures for details
DELIVERY & RETURNS
DELIVERY & RETURNS
A Note on August Shipping
Each August, much of France takes a well-earned pause to enjoy la vie. Some of our French friends and partners who help us source, prepare, and send our paintings have already headed off to do summer properly. A little patience may be required during this time. Consider it a small invitation to borrow a page from the French way of living: exhale. Orders placed during this period may occasionally take a little longer than usual. Pieces already in Los Angeles are unaffected and ready to ship as usual.
If you are purchasing for a time-sensitive project, please reach out before ordering and we’ll happily confirm the timeline for the specific piece.
✈️ Shipping & Delivery
We offer free shipping for all orders, with an expedited option available for those who consider waiting for art a form of exquisite torture. All items are insured and carefully packaged to ensure they arrive safely. Delivery typically takes 5–15 business days, depending on your location.
🇺🇸 U.S. customers: All of our pieces are exempt from import duties and tariffs. We provide the correct documentation to ensure your order clears customs smoothly.
🇬🇧 UK customers: Antique artworks are duty-free and qualify for a reduced 5% VAT at import, not the full rate.
🌍 Customers in other countries: Duties and taxes vary, but original and antique artworks often qualify for reduced or zero import fees. Please check with your local customs office for details. We’re happy to assist and provide any documentation you may need.
If you have questions about shipping or customs, please don’t hesitate to message us at hellorawbrush@gmail.com, we’re here to help.
Most of our paintings will be shipped straight from France unless specified otherwise. While we aim to send them your way as quickly as possible, very occasional delays may occur, as some of our beloved French partners have a certain je ne sais quoi and like to take their time preparing the paintings. You can’t rush good things in life, after all—and we’re talking about antique and vintage paintings here.
Return
We accept returns within 7 days of delivery.
We want you to be obsessed with your new painting. If it doesn’t feel right in your space, you may request a return within 7 days of delivery, as long as it’s returned in the same condition and original packaging. Return shipping is covered by the customer, and the artwork must be packed with great care; damage incurred during return transit may result in a reduced or declined refund. More details HERE
Gift cards are nonrefundable.
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