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Learn MorePlace de la Madeleine by Edouard Léon Cortès
- This autumnal scene of the Place de la Madeleie captures the energy and charm of Paris
- Cortès depicts the bustling streets illuminated by the warm glow of lanterns and a golden sky
- The scene is alive with movement as pedestrians and automobiles navigate the softly lit evening
- Edouard Léon Cortès is renowned as the “Parisian Poet of Painting”
- Get complete item description here
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1882-1969 I French
Place de la Madeleine
Signed “Edouard Cortès” (lower right)
Oil on canvas
Renowned as the “Parisian Poet of Painting,” Edouard Léon Cortès expertly captured the dynamic energy and nostalgic charm of Paris, as exemplified in this exceptionally large autumnal scene. Depicting the famed Place de Madeleine with expressive fervor, Cortès conveys the essence of the Belle Époque, depicting the bustling streets illuminated by the warm glow. . .
1882-1969 I French
Place de la Madeleine
Signed “Edouard Cortès” (lower right)
Oil on canvas
Renowned as the “Parisian Poet of Painting,” Edouard Léon Cortès expertly captured the dynamic energy and nostalgic charm of Paris, as exemplified in this exceptionally large autumnal scene. Depicting the famed Place de Madeleine with expressive fervor, Cortès conveys the essence of the Belle Époque, depicting the bustling streets illuminated by the warm glow of lanterns against the iconic architecture and golden sky. The scene is alive with movement as pedestrians and automobiles navigate the softly lit evening. Cortès’ masterful technique and keen attention to atmosphere make this work a striking tribute to the enduring allure of Paris.
Born in Lagny-sur-Marne, France, in 1882, Edouard Léon Cortès was immersed in the artistic tradition from an early age. His father, Antonio Cortès, and his older brother, André, were both accomplished painters, providing him with a strong foundation in the craft. Additionally, he was influenced by renowned Impressionist artists such as Maximilien Luce, Camille Pissarro and Lucien Pissarro, who were close family friends drawn to Lagny-sur-Marne for its picturesque landscapes. At seventeen, Cortès furthered his studies at the École des Beaux-Arts in Paris. His reputation quickly grew after he exhibited a striking Parisian street scene at dusk at the Société des Artistes Française, earning him widespread recognition.
From that point forward, Cortès devoted his career to capturing the essence of Paris in his paintings. Each composition offers a distinct narrative and perspective, reflecting seasonal changes and urban development while preserving a sense of nostalgia. His evocative portrayals of Paris were highly sought after during his lifetime and continue to be prized by collectors and art enthusiasts today.
Canvas: 17" high x 28 5/8" wide (43.18 x 72.71 cm)
Frame: 23 1/2" high x 35 1/4" wide x 2" deep (59.69 x 89.54 x 5.08 cm)
Provenance:
Acquired in Paris, 1926
Private Collection, United States
M.S. Rau, New Orleans

| Maker: | Cortes, Edouard Leon |
| Period: | 1919-Present |
| Origin: | France |
| Type: | Paintings |
| Style: | Post-Impressionism |
| Depth: | 2.0 in. (5.08 cm) |
| Width: | 35.25 in. (89.54 cm) |
| Height: | 23.5 in. (59.69 cm) |
| Canvas Width: | 28.625 in. (72.71 cm) |
| Canvas Height: | 17.000 in. (43.18 cm) |
The “Beautiful Age” of Painting: Works of the Belle Époque
The late 19th and early 20th centuries were exciting times to be in France. The end of the Franco-Prussian War provided the catalyst for a period of peace and prosperity known today...
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