“At The Oasis” Oil Painting On Canvas By Georges Washington (1827-1910)

Description:

Georges Washington was born out of wedlock and held a deep admiration for George Washington, which led to his namesake. Initially, his mother did not acknowledge him officially until 1868. He began his artistic studies under the guidance of François-Edouard Picot, a prominent history painter. Dissatisfied with his education, Washington embarked on a journey to Algeria, seeking inspiration.

In 1857, Washington had his first exhibition at the Salon, marking the beginning of a fifty-year-long presence at the renowned art event. In 1879, he received a commission from two Belgian companies, prompting him to revisit North Africa, particularly Morocco. He continued his travels through Eastern Europe, passing through Turkey and culminating in an exhibition in Moscow in 1881. During his artistic career, Washington was profoundly influenced by the works of Eugène Fromentin and Eugène Delacroix.

In 1884, Washington’s father-in-law, the battle painter Henri Philippoteaux, passed away, leaving him a modest apartment in Montmartre. In an attempt to raise funds for a farm in Brittany, Washington sold several paintings at the Hôtel Drouot, but his efforts were not successful. Subsequently, he received a new commission that required him to work in New York City; however, the venture proved challenging, and he returned under difficult financial circumstances.

Washington’s artistic passion endured, and he continued to paint from his studio in Montmartre. Eventually, he retired to Douarnenez, where he resided with his daughter and son-in-law.

One of Washington’s notable oil paintings on canvas measures 20×24″ and is titled “At The Oasis.” This artwork showcases his skillful use of contrasting colors. In the painting, Washington depicts horse riders passing through a river, capturing their reflection in the water. The delicate rendering of the horses and human anatomy, as well as the detailed portrayal of nature, evokes a realistic scene, forging a connection between the viewer and the depicted period of time. The interplay of contrast, both in colors and subject matter, adds depth and visual interest to the composition, immersing the viewer in the vibrant atmosphere of the oasis.

Washington’s works may be seen at the

• Musée des Beaux-Arts de Dunkerque 
• Musée des Beaux-Arts de Limoges  
• Musée Paul-Valéry in Sèt eand Dolmabahçe Palace in Istanbul.

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