“The Passage of Commerce Saint-Andre,” painted in 1954 by the artist Balthus, is an oil on canvas artwork belonging to the Metaphysical art movement. Measuring 294 x 330 cm, this genre painting is currently held in a private collection.
The artwork presents a scene with several figures dispersed across what appears to be an urban street or passageway, evoking a mysterious and slightly surreal atmosphere. The central figure, seen from the back, is walking away while holding objects that catch the viewer’s attention, perhaps bread sticks. To the side, a woman with folded arms gazes out, adding a contemplative mood to the scene. A small child is positioned on the left, playing with a toy, while another seated figure is located on the right side of the artwork. The architectural elements and muted color palette contribute to an enigmatic and slightly haunting ambiance, typical of the Metaphysical art movement.
