André des Fontaines was born in Martinique in 1869 and moved to metropolitan France in his teenage years. He pursued his artistic studies in Paris, training under established academic painters such as Jules Lefebvre and Désiré Lucas. He saw initial success in the 1890s, and this was followed by multiple exhibitions in the Parisian Salons in 1900s. In 1908, he was clearly well-established enough that he was awarded a membership of the Société des Artistes, and the following year was awarded an honourable mention at that year’s Slon.

 

Much of André des Fontaines’ subject matter is centred around the town of Niort in the Loire valley, but he was also well known for his depictions of Brittany. From the works he exhibited at the Salon, it appears that scenes of haystacks were his most popular subject matter. He also worked extensively in watercolour for much of his early career.

 

There seems to be an often-repeated error that the artist passed away in 1910, but a press notice from 1936 attests to him being alive, well, and exhibiting in Nantes. Additionally, it suggests that the 1930s were possibly the most successful decade of the artist’s career, with multiple works being accepted in the Salon in 1931, 1932, 1933, and 1935. He also began exhibiting at the renowned Galeries Georges Petit in Paris in 1930, which suggests that his works were in sufficient demand that he was supported by a major collector.

 

Free shipping for artworks above £5,000 in the UK. For International customers please contact us for a shipping quote.