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LOT 141

CGP OSA PRCA
1898 - 1967
Canadian

Twilight on the Terrace, Quebec
oil on canvas
signed and on verso signed, titled, dated 1965 and inscribed "XX-Dec-6-66" and "5927"
28 x 22 in, 71.1 x 55.9 cm

Estimate: $40,000 - $60,000 CAD

Sold for: $43,250

Preview at: Heffel Toronto – 13 Hazelton Ave

PROVENANCE
Continental Galleries, Montreal
Private Collection, Winnipeg, January 20, 1967
By descent to the present Private Collection, Ontario

LITERATURE
Paul Duval, Canadian Impressionism, 1990, page 138


In its depiction of the view across the St. Lawrence River from Quebec City at the delicate and evocative hour of twilight, Twilight on the Terrace, Quebec is a classic subject for Canadian Impressionist Robert Pilot. Paul Duval noted that “Pilot was a master of twilight, that transient time of day when artificial lamps and natural light are joined in the same vibration. That insubstantial effect is at its most magical in winter, when the dominant fields of white reflect both light sources, placing every form within an identical tonal fabric.” Pilot’s muted winter palette of blue, mauve and grey expertly expresses the subtle atmosphere of dusk. This fine work is replete with interesting details on the terrace that express the active life of the city, such as the procession of people trudging along one snowy path and the horse-drawn sleighs moving along another. The painting also includes another classic visual element for Pilot - the ferry steaming across from Lévis. Although the date is the 1960s, Pilot appears to be nostalgically looking back to a time in Quebec City that he clearly reverenced.


Estimate: $40,000 - $60,000 CAD

All prices are in Canadian Dollars


Although great care has been taken to ensure the accuracy of the information posted, errors and omissions may occur. All bids are subject to our Terms and Conditions of Business. Bidders must ensure they have satisfied themselves with the condition of the Lot prior to bidding. Condition reports are available upon request.