Joie de vivre: Modern Art and the Riviera offers an eclectic selection of colourful artworks that evoke the spirit of the iconic Côte d’Azur and the Mediterranean atmosphere. From the golden beaches of Saint-Tropez to the hilltop towns of Saint-Paul-de-Vence, France’s Riviera has long held an allure over artists, providing a constant source of inspiration, respite and escapism, especially during times of historic turmoil or uncertainty.

Starting at the turn of the century, generations of artists have fallen in love with the secret delights of this Mediterranean idyll, intoxicated by the dazzling colours and bright light as well as the palpable presence of the classical past, spending sun-soaked summer sojourns in the once undiscovered fishing villages of La Ciotat, Saint Raphael and Juans-les-Pins. As the Riviera grew in fame, so the increasingly glamorous towns of Nice, Cannes and Antibes beckoned, luring a host of artists to their sunny shores. From Pablo Picasso to Carlos Nadal, each work in this group of paintings, works on paper and ceramics is filled with the sparkling sense of joie de vivre that defines this evocative corner of the world.

Works from the sale are on view at our King Street galleries from 2-9 July. Please contact a specialist to arrange a viewing appointment.