FERNAND MAILLAUD (FRENCH, 1862-1948)

Per a label on the frame's reverse, this painting was part of an intercultural exchange project, the 'Train de la Reconnaissance française,' commonly referred to as the 'Merci Train.' In 1949 this post-war initiative sent 49 gift-laden boxcars to the United States from France in response to the 1947 U.S. Friendship Train and in thanks for the United States' contributions during World War II. As the label notes, the present lot was offered by the town of Châteauroux in the province of Berry, near Maillaud's hometown.