Stella Mertens (Belgian, 1896-1986), Ile St. Louis with a Crab

Oil on canvas, 1951, signed and dated at lower left, retains labels from Galerie de Braux and Christie's to the verso, presented in the likely original frame.

Stretcher size 28 3/4 x 21 1/2 in.; Frame dimensions 36 x 28 1/2 in.

Galerie de Braux, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Born in Belgium, Stella Mertens later settled in Paris, where she developed her artistic practice largely through self-directed study. Her work was introduced to American audiences in 1956 with her first exhibition in the United States at the New York Circulating Library of Paintings.

Drying crackle in dark ground of tabletop inherent with materials chosen by the artist; staining and discoloration to linen liner; no evidence of retouch visible under UV light.