Before its recent consignment, Peupliers au bord de l’Epte, crépuscule was exhibited for over 30 years at the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston, where Fusco first encountered it. The painting was also loaned to various institutions across Europe and the U.S., showcasing its significance.
Standing at over three feet tall, this masterpiece is part of Monet’s renowned “Peupliers” series, consisting of 24 canvases created during the spring, summer, and fall of 1891 in Giverny, a village in northern France.
Fusco previously sold Peupliers au bord de l’Epte, automne, which fetched $36.5 million (including fees) in May 2022 at Christie’s New York. Additionally, Peupliers au bord de l’Epte, temps couvert achieved $30.8 million in November 2022 at Sotheby’s New York. Both paintings were estimated at a minimum of $30 million.
When compared to these works and Four Trees held at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, Fusco described Peupliers au bord de l’Epte, crépuscule as having an “incredible atmosphere,” citing Monet’s vibrant use of pinks, purples, and blues.
Capturing the richness of Monet’s color layering and paint density in photographs is challenging, Fusco explained. “Standing before it is a transporting experience, thanks to its striking coloration and imposing verticality. The composition mirrors the elegant height of the poplar tree, creating a truly immersive presence.”
The painting will debut in Taipei on April 19.
