Paul Madeline (1863 – Paris – 1920) - A View of Ghent

Paul Madeline
1863 – Paris – 1920
French Painter

'A View of Ghent'

Signature: signed lower right ‘P. Madeline’
Medium: oil on canvas
Dimensions: image size 46,5 x 55,5 cm, frame size 70 x 79 cm

Biography: Paul Madeline (7 October 1863 – 12 February 1920) was a celebrated French Post-Impressionist painter renowned for his captivating landscapes and village scenes. Born in Paris, Madeline’s artistic journey began at the École des Beaux-Arts de Paris, where he juggled his passion for painting with a job at a publishing company to support his studies.

In 1894, Madeline’s encounter with Maurice Rollinat and Léon Detroy opened the door to the picturesque countryside of Creuse. Enthralled by its beauty, he spent several months each year painting there, particularly during the autumn seasons, ultimately becoming one of the region’s most distinguished artists.

His talent soon gained recognition, leading to regular exhibitions at the Salon, alongside memberships in esteemed art societies such as the “Salon de la Nationale des Beaux-Arts” and the Salon d’Automne. By 1902, Madeline achieved financial independence solely through his art, a testament to his skill and dedication. In 1908, Madeline co-founded “La Société Moderne” with fellow luminaries Henri Lebasque, Jean-François Raffaëlli, Edmond Aman-Jean, and Maurice Chabas, further cementing his influence in the art world. His artistic journey led him to explore the enchanting landscapes of Brittany in the early 1910s, enriching his repertoire.

The outbreak of World War I saw Madeline mobilised as a war artist, although his contributions in this capacity are relatively obscure. Nonetheless, his dedication to capturing the essence of his surroundings remained unwavering.

In 1926, the Salon des Indépendants paid homage to Madeline’s illustrious career with a comprehensive retrospective, underscoring his lasting impact on the art world. Today, his masterpieces continue to enchant audiences in various French museums, including the prestigious Musée d’Orsay in Paris, as well as in Nice, Rouen, Limoges, and Nantes, ensuring that his legacy endures for generations to come.

Notes: Paul Madeline was a Paris-born post-impressionist painter, co-founder of “La Société Moderne.” Known for vibrant landscapes, particularly of La Creuse and Brittany, he emphasised light and color. His work is displayed in museums across France, including Musée d’Orsay in Paris, as well as in Nice, Rouen, Limoges, and Nantes.