12. (25583843/1) RAOUL DUFY (1877-1953) View of the quays of Paris in front of the Hôtel de Ville oil on canvas Painted circa 1904 46.5 x 55.4 cm. 18 5/16 x 21 13/16 in. The authenticity of this work has been confirmed by Fanny Guillon-Laffaille and David Guillon. Provenance Private collection, France. Private collection, France (acquired from the latter). Raoul Dufy's Vue des quais, L'Hôtel de Ville, painted between 1903 and 1904, is a vibrant work that captures the essence of Parisian life at the beginning of the 20th century. In this oil on canvas, Dufy immerses us in a view of the Seine and its quays, with the Hôtel de Ville standing majestically in the background. Dufy's style is characterised by bright colours and expressive brushstrokes, which instil an atmosphere of joy and movement. Warm hues, such as the yellows of the sky and the red of the French flag flying in the foreground over the Seine, contrast with the nuanced blues, greens and greys, creating a harmonious balance. The use of light, reflected on the water, evokes a sense of vitality and optimism. The human figures, though small and stylised, add a social dimension to the work. The passers-by and the boat on the quayside are evidence of a bustling city. The Town Hall on the right of the picture, with its elegant architecture, symbolises authority and history. In this painting, Dufy invites us to experience the beauty of Paris, while at the same time offering us his poetic vision. There is a sense of balance, peace, light and beauty. Despite the movement of the waves and the flag waving in the wind, time seems suspended. This work, emblematic of his style, testifies to his love of the city and his ability to capture fleeting moments with remarkable visual intensity.