Femme aux régates (1920)

Henri Lebasque's exquisite watercolor, "Femme aux régates" (1920), captures a serene yet lively scene of elegant spectators at a regatta. Set against a backdrop of a softly hued sky and a calm sea dotted with numerous sailboats, the painting conveys a sense of both stillness and movement.At the forefront, we see a group of women, each depicted in distinct poses and attired in vibrant, flowing dresses that reflect the fashion of the early 20th century. The central figure is a woman wearing a yellow dress adorned with floral patterns, seated in a relaxed posture, possibly watching the boats or lost in thought. To her right, a woman in a wide-brimmed red hat and a green coat looks towards the sea, her attention captured by the event. Other figures include women observing the scene, contributing to the atmosphere of a leisurely social gathering.Lebasque’s use of loose brushstrokes and watercolor technique allows for a transparency and lightness that perfectly complements the airy and open setting of the seaside. The soft blues, greens, and earth tones merge to form an inviting and dreamlike quality, engaging viewers to feel the gentle seaside breeze and the enjoyment of a summer day."Femme aux régates" is not only a reflection of a serene moment in time but also an example of Lebasque's mastery in portraying light and his ability to convey the spontaneous joy of life through his art.