A mural painted by French impressionist artist Paul Cezanne has been recently discovered in his family home. The majority of the 64-square-foot mural is missing, although the well-preserved edges of the artwork indicate it once showed a maritime scene.
Back in 1859, Cezanne’s father purchased a mansion, known as Bastide du Jas de Bouffan, in the city of Aix-en-Provence in Southern France. Young Cezanne went on to produce a number of different artworks while living in the mansion, including several murals. It was believed that all of his works associated with Bastide du Jas de Bouffan had been identified, but a recent renovation uncovered a previously unknown mural.
“Throughout the history of the bastide, we have had no evidence of the presence of this painting, so this is a happy discovery,” said Bruno Ely, director of Aix-en-Provence’s Granet Museum.
Nine murals painted on the walls of Bastide du Jas de Bouffan were previously attributed to Cezanne. These artworks were removed and placed in a frame before being distributed to various museums.
According to Sophie Joissains, mayor of Aix-en-Provence, the public will be able to see the newly discovered mural in person when the renovated Bastide du Jas de Bouffan opens in 2025. The event will include an exhibition of Cezanne’s other works, including his iconic painting “Card Players”.