Van Dongen's masterpiece restored and exhibited in the Horse Universe
In 2022, Les Franciscaines devoted its first monographic exhibition to the painter Kees Van Dongen with Deauville me va comme un gant. It was a natural choice: the artist enjoyed a unique complicity with Deauville, where he spent fifty summers, finding inspiration for his works and clients for his commissions.
The exhibition rekindled the desire to make his work an even greater part of the town's cultural history. This wish became a reality last Saturday, when Philippe Augier, alongside patrons Pierre Le Corre, CEO of SAS Diser, and Guy Nafilyan, unveiled an oil on canvas from 1953: the portrait of the Duc d'Audiffret-Pasquier. Recently restored, this masterpiece has regained all its splendor thanks to the meticulous work of our restorers. This is an essential step in preserving our heritage and giving new life to works marked by time.
This moving moment took place under the tender gaze of the Duke's grandson, Xavier, accompanied by his wife Alizée and their daughter Olivia. The portrait, formerly at Château de Sassy, has now found its new home at Les Franciscaines.
You can admire this exceptional work at the entrance to the Univers Cheval, where it enriches Deauville's artistic and historical heritage.
