Attributed to Étienne Morillon (1884–1949) - Rural Landscape with Stream

attributed to Étienne Morillon (1884–1949)
Rural Landscape with Stream, ca. 1920
Oil on canvas

Étienne Morillon was a French painter and printmaker active in Lyon during the first half of the 20th century. Trained within the French academic tradition but closely connected to the modern artistic circles of Lyon, his work developed toward a freer, more expressive handling of colour and brushwork. Landscapes occupy an important place within his oeuvre, often combining natural observation with the spontaneity and luminosity associated with Post-Impressionist painting.

This atmospheric rural landscape depicts a small stream leading the eye toward a farmhouse and haystack, framed by dense trees beneath a dramatic, luminous sky. A small figure in red and white provides a vivid focal point and gives scale and life to the composition.

The painting is particularly attractive for its energetic, confident brushwork. The clouds are constructed with broad, sweeping strokes, while the foliage is built through layered touches of earthy greens, ochres and browns. Reflections in the water create depth and lead the composition naturally toward the centre of the landscape.

The work is signed lower right “Morillon”, in red paint. The signature, handling and overall character of the painting are consistent with works associated with Étienne Morillon, and the painting is therefore offered as attributed to the artist.

Executed in oil on canvas and presented in a later decorative frame.

Dimensions:
Painting: 49 × 68 cm
Framed: 67 × 87 cm

The canvas remains mounted on its original-style wooden stretcher and shows age-related surface characteristics consistent with a work from the early 20th century. Overall condition is good for its age; please refer carefully to the detailed photographs, including close-ups, reverse and ultraviolet images.

A highly decorative and accomplished French landscape with strong visual presence, appealing both as a collector’s piece and as an elegant interior painting.