William Malherbe (1884 - 1951) - Flower bouquet

William Malherbe
1884 – 1951
French-American Painter

'Bouquet de Fleurs'

Signature: signed lower right 
Medium: oil on canvas
Dimensions: image size 62,50 x 51,50 cm, frame size 80 x 69,50 cm

Notes: Between 1939 and 1948, William Malherbe resided in the United States. During this time, he created a vibrant piece inspired by the sunlight and scenery around him, using thick paint in jewel-toned colors reminiscent of Bellow’s landscapes. Starting exhibitions in Paris at 18, Malherbe explored various styles before developing his own unique style, recognized by Gustave Kahn as “particularly interesting.” He counted Renoir and Bonnard among his friends and inspirations.

Biography: William Malherbe, a distinguished French-American painter born on December 28, 1884, left an indelible mark on the art world, particularly within the realm of post-impressionism. His artistic journey was marked by notable periods in both the United States and Europe.

Between 1939 and 1948, Malherbe resided in the United States, a period during which he executed a piece that showcased his mastery of color and light. Inspired by the vibrant sunlight and scenic views, he employed thick paint in jewel-toned colors, creating a pulsating surface reminiscent of Bellow's landscapes.

Malherbe's artistic roots trace back to Paris, where he began exhibiting at the young age of 18. His studies in architecture at the School of Decorative Arts laid the foundation for his artistic exploration. Over time, he delved into various styles, including Cubism, Fauvism, Post-impressionism, and Neo-Impressionism, eventually developing a distinctive personal style.

During this lively period in the arts, Malherbe found inspiration in the company of prominent painters such as Renoir and Bonnard. Notably, his singular style drew the attention of the renowned art historian Gustave Kahn, who hailed him as "a particularly interesting artist of the day."

Born in Senlis, just north of Paris, Malherbe's experiences in World War I deeply influenced his art. His illustrations for his brother Henry's war memoir showcased his talent, earning him recognition. In the 1930s, he gained artistic success, exhibiting at the Salon d'Automne and earning the support of the esteemed Durand-Ruel gallery.

In 1939, at the age of 55, Malherbe immigrated to New York City, where he exhibited at the Corcoran in Washington D.C. His move to a farm in Thetford, Vermont, until 1948, marked a productive period, capturing vibrant post-impressionist scenes. His exhibitions at the Corcoran Gallery were highly successful, showcasing the allure of Vermont and Gloucester in his work.

Malherbe, known for his preference for painting on wood, returned to France in 1948, where he continued to contribute to the art world until his passing in 1955. His legacy endures in collections like the Musee d'Art Moderne in Paris, reflecting the lasting impact of his colorful and light-infused post-impressionist works.