André Canuet (French, 20th Century) surrealist oil on canvas, allegory of life and death. 1976

André Canuet (French, 20th Century)
Échecs et Mort (Chess and Death), 1976
Oil on canvas, signed and dated lower right Canuet 76, titled lower left Échecs et Mort
Canvas: 60 × 73 cm (20 P)
Framed: 63 × 76 cm approx.
A striking surrealist allegory depicting two robed figures playing chess beneath the spectral presence of Death, framed by an ornate arch and colossal chess pieces emerging from the desert mist. Painted with Canuet’s signature precision and dreamlike tonality, this 1976 work encapsulates the metaphysical vision of the French fantastique painters of the era.
Verso: French 20P stretcher stamped “20P”; pencil inscription, possibly atelier Canuet.
Condition: Fine; light surface craquelure consistent with age, minor scuff lower margin; structurally sound.