Henri Lebasque – At the Terrace at Prefailles, 1922 Sotheby’s

The canvas presents a scene of leisure and tranquility, centered around a terrace overlooking a body of water. A low brick wall establishes the foreground, defining the space occupied by two figures and lush vegetation. The composition is divided into distinct planes: the immediate terrace area, a band of foliage, and the expansive vista of water and sky beyond.
Here we see two individuals positioned on the terrace. One, presumably female, is seated in a chair, her posture suggesting relaxation and contemplation. She wears a light-colored dress and a yellow hat, contributing to an overall impression of elegance and refinement. Beside her stands another figure, likely male, dressed in muted tones with a straw hat shielding his face from the sun. Their proximity implies a shared experience, perhaps conversation or simply comfortable companionship.
The vegetation immediately behind them is rendered with broad strokes of green and purple, creating a dense, textured screen that separates the figures from the distant view. The foliage’s abundance suggests a cultivated garden, further reinforcing the sense of privilege and ease associated with this setting.
Beyond the terrace and foliage, the water stretches to the horizon, punctuated by several sailboats. These vessels are depicted in varying sizes and distances, their sails rendered in vibrant hues of red, blue, and white. The boats contribute dynamism to the scene, hinting at movement and a connection to the wider world beyond this secluded spot. Above, the sky is painted with soft, diffused light, suggesting either early morning or late afternoon.
The color palette is dominated by warm tones – yellows, greens, and browns – which evoke feelings of warmth and serenity. The artist’s brushwork is loose and expressive, prioritizing a sense of atmosphere over precise detail. This technique lends the scene an immediacy and spontaneity, as if capturing a fleeting moment in time.
Subtly, the painting conveys themes of social class and idyllic leisure. The carefully maintained terrace, the elegant attire of the figures, and the presence of sailboats all suggest a comfortable lifestyle enjoyed by those with access to both resources and free time. The scene is not merely descriptive; it’s an evocation of a particular moment in history – a period characterized by relative prosperity and a desire for refined recreation. The compositions emphasis on stillness and contemplation suggests a yearning for respite from the complexities of modern life, finding solace in nature and companionship.