The Quebecair Legacy: The Constantineau Family Collection
Nash Gallery is proud to present a rare, historically significant collection of works by Fleurimond Constantineau (1905–1981), one of the foremost chroniclers of the Canadian landscape and the Far North.
What distinguishes this specific group of five paintings is its impeccable provenance. These works were acquired directly from the Constantineau family’s inner circle, through a Quebecair pilot who was a longtime colleague and close friend of the artist’s son. This direct lineage—rooted in the “Golden Age” of Canadian aviation and professional camaraderie—provides an unshakeable record of authenticity and exceptional preservation.
A Methodical Legacy: The Boxed Inventory System
A unique hallmark of this collection is the presence of the artist’s original boxed inventory numbers on the verso of each panel. These markings act as a “signature of authenticity,” revealing Constantineau’s disciplined approach to cataloging his major geographic expeditions as distinct bodies of work.
- The 1946 Laurentian Series (Nos. 543 & 544): These consecutive panels represent the artist’s “first manner,” capturing the post-war energy of the Piedmont region with bold, sculptural impasto.
- The 1951 Arctic Expedition (No. 81): A primary document from Constantineau’s pioneering voyage aboard the Regina Polaris, marking the start of his most iconic chapter.
- The Maritime & River Studies (Nos. 170 & 122): Documenting his enduring fascination with the Gaspé Peninsula and the St. Lawrence River, these works represent his prolific mid-career development, spanning from his vibrant 1949 coastal studies through to his more atmospheric river scenes of 1969.
Historical Significance
Kept together as a cohesive group for over half a century, this collection offers a rare opportunity for collectors to acquire works with a shared, verified history. These paintings are not merely landscapes; they are primary records of 20th-century Canadian exploration and the profound artistic bravery of a Quebec master.