Au Beau Navire, Pierre Outin (1840-1899)

PIERRE OUTIN
1840 - 1899
Au Beau Navire
Oil on canvas signed OUTIN lower right
Size : 78 cm x 60 cm
Dimensions with frame : 92 cm x 75 cm

The scene takes place in a restaurant in 19th-century Moulins. The painting captures an intimate, elegant moment: in the center of the composition, a graceful woman catches the eye. Dressed in a sumptuous gown adorned with lace and embroidery, she is also wearing a magnificent hat that emphasizes her refined allure.
To her right stands a young man, probably a messenger or perhaps a lover. His gaze is attentive and hopeful as he watches the woman read the letter he has just brought her. The contrast between the messenger's innocence and the lady's sophistication creates a subtle but palpable tension in the atmosphere.
Just as important as the figures in the foreground is the painting's background: the Régemortes bridge, an emblematic architectural feature of Moulins. The bridge, with its majestic arches, is bathed in daylight, adding a dimension of depth and perspective to the scene.
The composition of the painting, the interplay of light and shadow, and the richness of the clothing and architectural details lend this work a timeless beauty and elegance typical of the 19th century. Although seemingly simple, this genre scene finely depicts the subtleties of human interaction and the atmosphere of a bygone era.
Pierre Outin, born in Moulins in 1840, was the son of a wealthy merchant. He attended the Lycée de Moulins, where he learned the rudiments of drawing. However, his father did not appreciate his artistic tastes and sent him to work in England. Still a miner, Pierre returned to Paris and found work in a silk factory, which pleased his father.
In 1861, having reached the age of majority, Pierre decided to leave his job to pursue his passion for art. Thanks to the intervention of sculptor Charles Joseph Lecointe, a family friend, he was admitted to the workshop of the famous painter Alexandre Cabanel. Outin proved a talented pupil, winning first prize in the École des Beaux-Arts competition in 1863.
As early as 1868, Outin exhibited his first canvas at the Salon des Artistes Français, revealing his penchant for historical genre scenes. From then on, he exhibited regularly at this prestigious salon.
In 1874, Outin undertook a long stay in Algeria, fascinated by the African land. There, he discovered the vivid colors, unique luminosity and oriental garb that enriched his palette on his return to France. This influence was felt in his work, where his colors became richer and more nuanced.
Outin frequented the Nouvelle Athènes in Paris, a meeting place for many artists of his time, such as Manet, Pissarro and Goeneutte. During the Siege of Paris and the Commune, he moved to Auvers-sur-Oise to stay with friends, where he painted a portrait of the painter Eugène Murer.
In 1880, his painting “Course d'Automne” caused a sensation at the Salon, attracting the attention of both the public and critics, notably Maurice Du Seigneur. He accumulated medals and mentions, culminating in his famous painting “Combat de Quiberon” in 1889, which placed him out of the competition. That same year, he received an honorable mention for “Piété filiale”.
Recognized during his lifetime, his works were bought by art dealers such as Goupil and Valadon, as well as by English, American and German collectors. Outin was known for his historical scenes, gallant genre scenes and Orientalist paintings, inspired by his stay in Algeria. These works are marked by elegant composition and a rich, delicate palette, capturing the warm atmosphere of the Orient.
Pierre Outin died in 1899, leaving behind a rich and diverse artistic legacy. His talents as a draughtsman and colorist continue to be appreciated in works preserved and admired around the world.