Watercolour on paper of a group of ladies looking on to two windsurfers with a harbour beyond. The painting is not signed but is similar to the works of Raymond Moretti. Presented in a modern frame with cut card mount under glass.

Provenance: Private French Collection, South of France.

A charming painting full of humour. The ladies look on, some in costumes, some apparently naked, as two athletic windsurfers pass in front of the beach. This artwork captures a vibrant beach scene with an ethereal and abstract touch. The artist employs a delicate palette of pastel hues, creating a sense of tranquillity and motion. Figures are depicted with minimalistic, flowing lines, evoking a sense of spontaneity and dynamism. The central figures appear relaxed, interacting with the sea and each other, while a windsurfer glides effortlessly in the background. The use of watercolour enhances the fluidity of the scene, blending sky and sea seamlessly. This composition uniquely balances abstraction with recognizable forms, inviting viewers to immerse themselves in a serene coastal moment. The artwork stands out for its ability to suggest depth and activity with minimal detail, highlighting the beauty of the seaside through simplicity and subtlety.

Raymond Moretti (1931-2005) was a renowned French illustrator, painter and sculptor, recognized for the diversity and power of his work. Born in Nice, he began his artistic career at a very young age, and at the age of 16, he created the famous painting Moses Breaking the Tablets of the Law, which already testified to his precocious talent and his daring approach to art. Throughout his career, Moretti explored universal themes with a unique energy. He was at the origin of many iconic works, including the logo of the Directorate of the French Judicial Police, where he integrated the face of Georges Clémenceau into that of a tiger, thus symbolizing the power and determination of the institution. Raymond Moretti began his career in Nice, working in the famous studios of the Victorine, where he created his first monumental sculpture, The Monster, an innovative piece composed of wood, metal, plexiglass and glass. This work marked the beginning of a rich and prolific artistic journey. At the age of 22, he met Pablo Picasso, a key figure in his artistic development. This friendship profoundly influenced Moretti, who, while maintaining his own artistic identity, was enriched by Picasso's audacity and vision. In 1965, Moretti made a name for himself on the Parisian scene with a landmark exhibition of twelve oils on the theme Cris du Monde, a poignant series reflecting the troubles and struggles of the time. In the 1970s, he moved to Paris, where he established himself as a key artist. In 1979, he was chosen to decorate the Forum des Halles, one of the most ambitious artistic projects in the capital at the time. His multidisciplinary talent also extends to public works. He created the sets for the 1981 presidential and legislative elections, demonstrating his ability to combine art and historical events. His emblematic sculpture of the Four Times clock, in the shopping arcade of La Défense, remains one of the artistic symbols of Parisian modernity. Moretti is also famous for his illustration work, especially through his regular contributions to the cover of the Literary Magazine, which he marked with his inimitable style for more than 20 years. His illustrations, always vibrant and expressive, reflect a deep reflection on society and culture.