#43926 Bernard Cathelin (1919-2004)

The work presents a cityscape viewed across a body of water, rendered on a folding screen composed of six distinct panels. The composition is divided into zones defined by color and form rather than strict perspective. A vibrant blue sky dominates the upper portion, punctuated with simplified cloud formations. Below this, a river or waterway stretches horizontally, its surface depicted in muted grey-blue tones that suggest depth and reflection.
Along the banks of the water, dense groupings of trees are visible, their foliage rendered in shades of yellow and gold, suggesting autumn. These trees act as visual anchors on either side of the composition, framing the central architectural elements. The buildings themselves appear stylized and abstracted; they rise from the riverbank with a starkness that minimizes detail while emphasizing their verticality. Several spires and towers punctuate the skyline, contributing to an overall impression of urban grandeur.
The artist’s use of color is particularly noteworthy. The juxtaposition of the intense blue sky against the warm yellows of the foliage creates a dynamic visual tension. This contrast is further amplified by the cool grey-blues of the water, which serve as a mediating element between these opposing hues. The flattened perspective and simplified forms contribute to a sense of detachment, suggesting that the scene is not intended to be viewed realistically but rather as an emotional or symbolic representation of urban space.
The folding screen format itself introduces another layer of meaning. It implies a fragmented view, a series of impressions rather than a unified whole. This could suggest a commentary on the nature of modern experience – fractured, disjointed, and mediated by layers of perception. The signature in the lower right corner is discreetly placed, further emphasizing the artwork’s focus on the scene itself rather than the artists presence. Overall, the work evokes a sense of melancholy beauty, capturing the essence of an urban landscape through a lens of abstraction and emotional resonance.