Unveiling of a Rediscovered Renoir Masterpiece Set for Auction in Paris

A previously unlisted oil painting by French Impressionist Pierre-Auguste Renoir, titled "L'enfant et ses jouets – Gabrielle et le fils de l'artiste, Jean" ("The Child and His Toys – Gabrielle and the Artist's Son, Jean"), has been unveiled at Paris's Hôtel Drouot and is set for auction on November 25, 2025. The artwork, painted between 1890 and 1895, features Renoir's second son, Jean, as a young child sitting on his nanny Gabrielle Renard's lap, playing with toy figurines. Jean Renoir, born in 1894, later became an acclaimed filmmaker, known for works such as "La Grande Illusion." Gabrielle Renard, who began working for Renoir's wife at age 16, was a favored model for the artist, appearing in approximately 200 of his paintings. The painting, valued between $1 million and $1.5 million, has remained in the same family since its creation and is set to be auctioned on November 25, 2025.

The painting, measuring 54 by 65 centimeters, is in pristine condition. Art experts have described it as a "masterpiece of intimacy," highlighting Renoir's exceptional skill during his mature period in the 1890s. Pascal Perrin, an art historian specializing in Renoir, emphasized the significance of the work, stating, "This painting is a very, very important work both in format and period. We are really looking at Renoir's perfect mastery of his art."

The artwork's provenance adds to its allure. Originally owned by Jeanne Baudot, Renoir's only student and Jean's godmother, the painting remained in her possession until her death in 1957. It was then inherited by Jean Griot, Baudot's adoptive son and godson, who preserved it until his death in 2011. The painting has never been publicly exhibited or listed in the Wildenstein archives, a major reference in the art world for authenticating and cataloging important works. Christophe Joron-Derem, the auctioneer handling the sale, noted, "This is a painting that never left the family, had never been seen, and wasn't even listed in the Wildenstein archives."

The upcoming auction at Hôtel Drouot, a historic Parisian auction house founded in 1852, presents a rare opportunity for collectors and museums to acquire a significant work by one of France's most beloved Impressionist masters. The painting's estimated value of between 1 million and 1.5 million euros reflects its rarity, impeccable condition, and intimate portrayal of the Renoir family's personal life.

The painting also highlights the intersection of art and cinema through the Renoir family's legacy. Jean Renoir, depicted as a child in the artwork, grew up to become an acclaimed filmmaker, known for works such as "La Grande Illusion." Gabrielle Renard, who began working for Renoir's wife at age 16, was a favored model for the artist, appearing in approximately 200 of his paintings. The unveiling and auction of this painting underscore the importance of preserving and rediscovering artworks that offer insights into the personal lives of renowned artists.

As the art world eagerly anticipates the November 25 auction, this rediscovered masterpiece offers a unique glimpse into the personal and artistic world of Pierre-Auguste Renoir, capturing a tender moment that bridges the realms of painting and cinema.