A charming original French pastel capturing a quiet moment beside the river at Poissy, just west of Paris. Signed by Suzanne Breton and titled “Poissy – Le Pont Ancien” (Poissy – The Old Bridge), this atmospheric composition evokes the leisurely elegance of French life through its softly blended colours and intimate narrative.
In the foreground, a woman in a flowing pale pink dress carries a parasol as she approaches an artist working at an easel beside the water. Behind them, an old stone bridge stretches across the river, its arches reflected in the water below. Muted greens, soft blues, warm earth tones and delicate touches of pink lend the scene a distinctly Impressionist-inspired character.
Executed in original pastel, the work displays a gentle, expressive handling of colour, particularly in the figures, foliage and reflections. The composition combines the charm of a French genre scene with the tranquillity of a riverside landscape.
Artist & Provenance
The pastel is signed “S. Breton” in the lower right corner. A handwritten inscription on the reverse identifies the artist as Suzanne Breton, with an address at 11 avenue Théodore de Bèze, Poissy, France.
The title “Poissy – Le Pont Ancien” is inscribed in the lower left of the artwork, providing a direct connection to the town and its historic riverside setting.
The work was sourced in Versailles, France and is estimate to date from the 20th century, created no later than 1978 (based on previous-owner provenance).
Presentation & Condition
Presented in a vintage gilt-finish moulded frame with fine dark detailing, the pastel is ready to hang and would make a graceful addition to a collected interior, gallery wall, library or intimate sitting room.
The pastel itself appears very well preserved, with no reported staining, tears or moisture damage. The frame displays age-related wear, including a visible area of finish loss along its upper edge and minor surface marks.
Approx. Dimensions (framed artwork)
- Width: 46 cm / 18.1 in
- Depth: 2.5 cm / 1.0 in
- Height: 32 cm / 12.6 in
Pastel dimensions (without frame): 40 × 26 cm / 15.7 × 10.2 in
Interior images are shown for visual context only. Decorative accessories not included.
Shipping & Insurance
This item will be carefully packed and shipped fully insured.
Shipping costs and any applicable import duties or taxes are calculated at checkout.
