Fred Pailhes, The Promise of a Coming Day, Le Havre, France, 1950s, Oil Painting, Framed

Alfred Henri Pailhès.
French ( b.1902 - d.1991 ).
La Promesse D’Un Jour Á Venir Au Le Havre.
Oil On Panel.
Signed Lower Left.
Image size 17.5 inches x 21.1 inches ( 44.5cm x 53.5cm ).
Frame size 24 inches x 27.6 inches ( 61cm x 70cm ).

This original oil painting is by the Havrais artist Fred Pailhes and dates from the 1950s.
The painting is presented and supplied in its original frame (which is shown in these photographs).
The frame and the panel’s painted surface have both benefitted from cleaning, restoration and conservation, which was performed on our instruction, supervision and approval.
This vintage painting is in very good condition. It wants for nothing and is supplied ready to hang and display.
The painting is signed lower left.

French artist Alfred Henri Pailhès was born in Le Havre on November 22nd 1902. He began drawing at a very young age and continued producing wonderful art throughout his long life.

Pailhès is primarily known for his paintings of ports and seascapes, including Marseille and Nice in the South of France and Le Havre and Honfleur in the north.

He is also known for his relaxed and often humorous style which captures the life of ordinary people; walking on the streets, dining in bistros and enjoying the life of music halls. He painted dancing girls and sailors, erotic women and vagabonds, seeing beauty in the movement and colour of life.

His work has been exhibited at the Musée Montparnasse and at the Chateaux Borély in Marseille. Pailhès died on 15 May 1991 in his home city of Le Havre. Since 1986 Pailhès works have been auctioned over 700 times and continue to increase in value. Today his works are highly collectable.



This life affirming original oil on board painting, titled “The Promise of a Day to Come in Le Havre”, is the work of Alfred Pailhès (1902–1991), a renowned French artist. The piece captures the tranquil beauty of the harbour at Le Havre, a historic port town in France. Signed by the artist in the lower left corner, the composition showcases vivid sailboats gently anchored in the shimmering waters, with the quaint coastal buildings and a rich play of sunlight reflecting off the water’s surface. The textured brushstrokes and bold use of colour create a dynamic atmosphere, evoking both the charm of a seaside town and the timeless beauty of maritime life.
Pailhès’ masterful use of light and shadow, combined with the soft, flowing clouds and vibrant sails, adds depth and movement to the painting. This artwork is a fine example of mid-20th century French Impressionism, capturing the essence of a peaceful harbour scene with life and energy.