Maxime Maufra – The Port of Goulphar, Belle-Ile-en-Mer, 1909 Sotheby’s

The canvas presents a coastal scene dominated by a sheltered harbor or inlet. The composition is structured around a receding perspective, drawing the viewers eye towards the distant horizon line where the water meets a cloudy sky. A rocky promontory occupies the left side of the frame, its contours rendered in earthy tones – ochre, umber, and touches of reddish-brown – suggesting weathered stone and exposed geological formations. This landmass partially encloses the harbor, creating a sense of seclusion and protection from the open sea.
Within the harbor itself, the water’s surface is animated by choppy waves, painted with short, broken brushstrokes in varying shades of green and turquoise. Several small sailing vessels are depicted on the water, their triangular sails catching the wind; they contribute to the feeling of activity and maritime life. The reflections of these boats and the surrounding landscape shimmer across the water’s surface, adding depth and complexity to the scene.
To the right, a path winds along the edge of the promontory, leading towards a cluster of buildings partially obscured by foliage. A solitary figure, presumably a worker or local resident, is visible on this path, leaning on what appears to be a tool – a detail that hints at the area’s economic reliance on fishing or maritime trade. The vegetation along the path and around the buildings is rendered with thick impasto, creating a textural contrast against the smoother surfaces of the water and sky.
The sky itself is characterized by a dynamic interplay of light and shadow. Puffy white clouds are scattered across a pale blue background, suggesting an overcast but not entirely gloomy day. The artist’s use of color – the juxtaposition of cool blues and greens with warmer earth tones – creates a visual harmony while simultaneously conveying the raw power and beauty of the coastal environment.
Subtly, the painting evokes themes of human interaction with nature and the rhythms of rural life. The sheltered harbor suggests safety and sustenance, while the presence of the boats and the solitary figure underscores the importance of maritime activity to the community. There is a quiet dignity in the depiction of this everyday scene, hinting at a connection between people and their environment that transcends mere utility. The overall impression is one of tranquility tinged with a sense of the enduring power of nature.