20th Century Paris Riverbank Painting - Notre Dame Cathedral

A beautifully textured Parisian oil painting capturing one of the most storied views in France: Notre-Dame rising above the Seine, its twin towers and iconic spire anchoring the skyline as life unfolds along the riverbank below.

Painted in the early 20th century, this work reflects the atmospheric charm of the era—when artists flocked to Paris to study light, architecture, and the poetry of everyday scenes. The brushwork is expressive and warm, with strokes of ochre, rust, and slate blue that create movement in both the sky and the bustling riverside.

Below the cathedral, figures gather near moored boats, a glimpse into the working rhythm of Paris long before modern tourism. Bridges arch gracefully across the water, and a vintage river kiosk sits along the bank, grounding the piece firmly in its time.

The painting is housed in its original carved wooden frame—weathered with age, softened at the edges, and offering the kind of patina collectors treasure. Together, the frame and canvas create a vignette that feels lifted straight from a Paris flea market, full of charm, history, and the spirit of old Paris.

Details

• Subject: Notre-Dame Cathedral, Paris
• Era: c. 1900–1930
• Medium: Oil on canvas
• Frame: Original carved wood frame with age-worn patina
• Style: Impressionist-influenced Parisian landscape

Condition Notes

Lovely antique condition with expected wear to the frame that enhances its character. Canvas and paint surface remain stable and richly colored.

Why We Love It

This painting captures more than a landmark—it captures a moment: the hum of life by the Seine, the glow of a Parisian afternoon, and the quiet majesty of Notre-Dame before the city we know today took shape.

It’s the kind of artwork that instantly transports a room, adding depth, warmth, and a sense of collected history.