Souvenir de 1914

This lithograph, entitled "Souvenir de 1914", depicts a poignant moment in Swiss history, evoking the mobilization of the army in 1914. In the foreground, a soldier stands upright, spear in hand, facing a majestic alpine landscape. The mountains, rendered with precision, rise in the background, creating a sense of grandeur and vastness. To the left, another figure, at a distance, seems to contemplate the horizon, adding a human dimension to this expansive scene. Light plays a crucial role in this work: a soft illumination emerges from the horizon, subtly lighting the soldier and the contours of the mountains. This light source creates a dramatic contrast with the shadows that envelop the rest of the composition. The palette, primarily composed of grays and browns, enhances the melancholic atmosphere while evoking the gravity of the situation. The artist's touch, precise and detailed, reflects a deep respect for the subject matter. The bottom of the work features an inscription that recalls the historical context, adding a narrative layer to the image. This painting, through its realistic style, manages to capture not only the beauty of the Swiss landscapes but also the emotion of an era marked by memory and sacrifice. About the artist — The identity "F. Rouge" is compatible, though not definitively established in the absence of photographs, dimensions, and edition indications, with Louis Frédéric Rouge, known as Frédéric Rouge (Aigle, 1867–Ollon, 1950), a Swiss painter, illustrator, and poster artist. The Fondation Frédéric Rouge documents notably his Vaud landscapes, scenes of hunters, lumberjacks, and soldiers, as well as his posters and illustrations. His presence at auctions is verified at Genève Enchères, Dogny Auction, Galartis, and Dobiaschofsky. However, the foundation notes the circulation of false works attributed to Frédéric Rouge: the attribution of "Souvenir de 1914" must therefore be materially confirmed before sale.