Manchester holds the largest collection of works by Valette.

This study complements two large paintings of horse-drawn cabs by Valette already in the collection. The artist is best known as the teacher of L S Lowry and for his series of large impressionistic paintings of Edwardian Manchester which are a unique and memorable record of the city. ValetteÂ’s views were produced in his studio from small, spontaneous, sketches made on the spot. This work is a prime example of his subtly-toned studies, which are among his most appealing works and capture the cityÂ’s atmosphere more exactly than the finished works while showing the transformation process from street to studio.

Provenance

The artist's widow Andree until 1971; Tib Lane Gallery, Manchester, 1971; John Cross; private collection, 1986.


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