Arsène Chabanian (1864-1949) - The old water mill

This exquisite pastel depicts a serene landscape with a flowing river, a bridge and a building on the right-hand side. The details of the painting, such as the texture of the foliage, the reflections in the water and the structure of the building, are meticulously rendered, suggesting careful observation of nature and a high level of technical skill. The scene is bathed in cool blue light, suggesting early morning or late evening, with the light reflecting off the surface of the water. The composition leads the viewer's eye along the river, from the foreground to the background where the bridge and building are located. The use of perspective and the placement of the bridge create an impression of depth. Chabanian uses a predominantly blue and green color palette, creating a fresh, soothing atmosphere. Reflections on the water are rendered in lighter, almost white tones, reinforcing the impression of movement and light reflection. Lighting is a key element in this painting. The artist has skilfully captured the way light interacts with water and the environment. The dappled light effect on the river suggests a partially obscured light source, perhaps filtered through trees or other foliage. The pastel technique seems free and expressive, particularly in the depiction of water. This technique reinforces the impression of movement and fluidity. The texture of the foliage and the rough surface of the rocks are rendered with visible, textured strokes, adding a tactile quality to the painting.
The overall mood is tranquil and reflective. Cool color tones and the gentle flow of the river contribute to a sense of peace and serenity. The subdued lighting and somewhat hidden parts of the scene also add a touch of mystery.
Chabanian's work shows influences of Impressionism, particularly in the way he captures light and atmosphere. The emphasis on natural landscapes and the use of light to convey mood are hallmarks of this movement.
This painting by Arsen(e) Chabanian is a fine example of landscape art that effectively uses color, light and composition to create a peaceful and engaging scene).

Arsène Chabanian (1864-1949)
Arsène Chabanian, an eminent seascape artist in Armenian and European art, was born in 1864 in Karin (Erzurum, western Armenia), then part of the Ottoman Empire. His early studies at the Murad Raphaelian College in Venice provided a solid foundation for his future artistic endeavors. After his studies in Venice, Chabanian worked in Batumi, a coastal town on the Black Sea. In 1890, he travelled to Theodosia to meet legendary seascape artist Ivan Aivazovsky, to benefit from his advice and mentorship. This encounter had a profound impact on his development as a seascape painter.
Chabanian then travelled to Paris to complete his training at the Académie Julian. There, he studied with such masters as Gustave Moreau, Jean-Paul Laurens and Benjamin Constant. These experiences enriched his artistic style, blending academic rigor with the effervescence of the Parisian art scene.
In 1891, the young Chabanian presented his painting "Le paquebot Nakhimov dans le port de Batoumi" to the Grand Duke of Russia, Georgiy Alexandrovich, who greatly appreciated it and expressed his gratitude. This early recognition laid the foundations for his future success.
In 1894, Chabanian exhibited his work at the Salon des artistes français, marking his entry into the competitive world of Parisian art. Six years later, in 1900, he took part in the Paris World's Fair, presenting a seascape that caught the eye.
Chabanian pioneered the technique of color engraving, founding the "Union des peintres de marine de Paris" and the "Société de gravure en couleurs". He was not only famous for his marine paintings, but also excelled in pastels, creating exquisite landscapes and still lifes. In 1926, the renowned Georges Petit gallery in Paris organized a solo exhibition of Chabanian's work, cementing his reputation as a leading seascape artist.
Chabanian spent his long and fruitful life throughout Italy, France, Belgium and England, continually learning and refining his art from various masters. Throughout his career, he produced over a thousand works. Despite the scale of his output, only a handful of his works remain in Armenia, some of them in the National Gallery of Armenia, the Holy See Museum in Echmiadzin and private collections.
The legacy of Arsène Chabanian, one of the greatest a

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