Antique French Floral Oil Painting – Dark Still Life in Gold Frame by Clement Gontier (1876–1918)

This striking French floral still life by Clement Gontier (1876–1918) presents an abundant arrangement of roses and lilacs, painted with remarkable sensitivity and technical skill. The bouquet spills naturally across a stone ledge, with soft pink roses and clusters of lilac rendered in layered, expressive brushstrokes. The composition feels both structured and spontaneous, balancing careful French academic observation with artistic freedom.

Gontier’s handling of light is particularly notable. The blooms are illuminated against a darker background, allowing their delicate tones to emerge with depth and clarity. Subtle variations in colour and texture give the flowers a sense of volume and movement, drawing the viewer in. Gontier florals were particularly popular at the Paris Salon at the turn of the century.

It is presented in an elegant gilt frame, which complements the richness of the composition and enhances its impact on the wall.

Condition:
Good antique condition with lots of fine craquelure, consistent with age. The surface shows natural texture and light wear. The frame shows appropriate age-related wear. Please see all photos.

Artist Bio — Clement Gontier (1876–1918)
Clement Gontier was a French painter born in Lavaur France in 1876, working at the turn of the 20th century. He trained in Paris under Jean-Paul Laurens, a respected painter of historical and genre subjects, grounding his work in strong academic tradition. Like many artists of his generation, Gontier absorbed the influence of the Impressionists, bringing a greater emphasis on light, colour, and expressive brushwork into his paintings. His work is particularly noted for its ability to capture softness and atmosphere while maintaining a confident, structured composition. He specialised in still lifes and genre scenes, and his talent was recognised early in his career when he was awarded a third-class medal at the Salon in 1904, confirming his place within the established French art world.

French School
Clement Gontier (1876–1918)
Oil on canvas
Circa 1900
Floral still life – roses and lilacs
Large format
Gilt frame

Sizing incl Frame:
Height: 25.59 inch (65cm)
Width: 29.53 inch (75cm)
Depth: 2.36 inch (6cm)

Sizing Painting:
Height: 21.26 inch (54cm)
Width: 25.59 inch (65cm)

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All products are shipped in good boxes and very well packaged.

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Imports and a “Duty Free” classification:
Antique paintings (+100 Years) are "Duty Free" within the USA, Canada, Australia and the European Union, you should NOT be charged any additional taxes for import and duty. As nearly all items in the shop are over 100 years old and classified as “antique” or “antique art” the objects are considered “Duty Free”. Amsterdam Curated will provide the appropriate certifications for the customs officials to ensure all qualified items will be shipped with this “Duty Free” classification. In the UK, it is not "FREE" but there is a reduced VAT of 5% paid at import.l