JOHN DUNCAN FERGUSSON R.B.A. (SCOTTISH 1874-1961) BREAKING WAVES Signed, inscribed and dated 'Royan 1910' on the reverse, oil on panel 26.5cm x 35cm (10.5in x 13.75cm) Note: John Duncan Fergusson was the most international and political of the four Scottish Colourists. Largely self-taught as an artist, Fergusson was originally based in Edinburgh, and developed his painterly and observation skills on the sights and population of the capital. At this time, he often worked on a small, portable scale, and on board for ease of transport. Fergusson's flâneur approach to life and painting translated perfectly to Paris, when he decided to move to this artistic centre in 1907. Fergusson was keen to explore other landscapes of France and in 1910 spent the summer at the coastal resort of Royan, accompanied by his friend and fellow painter, S. J. Peploe. The two artists encouraged and supported each other, and there are many wonderful records in paint of the sights of the summer. In Breaking Waves, Fergusson uses a variety of blue tones, alongside hints of green and fresh white with lashings of texture and dynamic brushwork to depict the turbulence and drama of the sea, the rocky coastline and strong, crashing waves of the Atlantic Ocean.