The artwork titled “Viareggio,” created in 1938 by the artist Francis Picabia, is an oil painting on cardboard. Measuring 97.5 x 73.5 cm, this piece belongs to the Expressionism movement and depicts a landscape. Currently, it is held in a private collection.
The artwork portrays a serene yet dramatic scene of a harbor at dusk or dawn. Several dark, towering sailboats with silhouetted masts dominate the background, set against a richly textured, vibrant blue sky that transitions to lighter tones at the horizon. The reflective water captures the deep blues and subtle lights, enhancing the ambiance. On one side, a wooden pathway extends into the distance, providing a stark contrast to the imposing structures of the boats and suggesting a human element within the tranquil setting. The moody atmosphere is amplified by the interplay of shadows and light, characteristic of the Expressionist style, evoking an emotional response to the silent and mysterious harbor.