Escalier de Montmartre (Escaliers de la rue Foyatier)

This view of Montmartre draws the eye along a staircase bordered by Parisian buildings with zinc roofs. The steps, railings and street lamp in the foreground establish depth and guide the gaze towards the façades. On the left, a tree’s dense foliage softens the geometry of windows, cornices and rooftops. With no figures present, the neighbourhood’s atmosphere and the relationship between architecture and vegetation take centre stage. The palette brings together beiges, greys and browns, enlivened by green foliage and warmer accents on the shopfronts. A pale sky opens up the composition, while shadows and dark railings anchor the foreground. Closely spaced façades and repeated windows give this scene, probably depicting the steps of the Rue Foyatier, its distinctive Parisian rhythm. The painting combines structured drawing with freer brushwork. Dark outlines define roofs, openings and railings, while broken strokes suggest leaves and the uneven surfaces of stone. This balance between architectural precision and freedom of gesture brings the scene to life without sacrificing clarity. This acrylic on canvas by Philippe Bunel bears the signature “BUNEL” at the lower right. It measures 45 × 55 cm in width and height, and 58 × 67 cm including the frame. Its dating to the 1960s–1970s remains approximate. The light-coloured frame quietly complements the tones of the façades. In a living room, study or light-filled hallway, this Parisian view brings urban perspective and a warm presence. Its subtle palette and pale frame sit comfortably against understated walls and alongside furniture with simple lines.