Gen Paul (1895–1975): Appraisal and Market Value

A Free and Daring Painter of Montmartre

Born in Paris in 1895, Gen Paul whose real name was Eugène Paul — is one of the most distinctive French painters of the 20th century.
Settled in Montmartre from 1919, he became part of the hill’s artistic circle alongside Utrillo, Kisling, Vlaminck, and Picasso.
A veteran of World War I, wounded in combat and amputated of a leg, he developed an instinctive and vibrant style of painting, where movement lies at the heart of expression.

Self-taught and passionate, Gen Paul refused to be confined by any label.
Between Expressionism, Cubism, and Lyrical Abstraction, he forged a personal, energetic, and spontaneous style, marked by swift brushwork and the vitality of color.

An Art of Emotion, Energy, and Modernity

Gen Paul’s art is above all an art of rhythm and gesture.
His compositions, often executed in oil or gouache, express perpetual motion whether depicting urban scenes, jazz musicians, horses, or popular figures.

His rapid brushstrokes, fragmented forms, and brilliant colors capture the modern vitality of the postwar era.
Gen Paul painted Paris as a living organism a world in motion where everything vibrates: the streets of Montmartre, cafés, concerts, horse races, and his travels to Spain and the United States.

He also produced numerous etchings, watercolors, and drawings, recognizable for their energetic signature and cinematic sense of framing.

A Recognized Yet Independent Artist

Rejecting institutions and compromise, Gen Paul remained fiercely independent throughout his career.
Although well connected to the Parisian art world, he never adhered to any school or manifesto, preferring to follow his own path.

In the 1950s and 1960s, he achieved international recognition, exhibiting in France, Germany, the United States, and Japan.
His works are now housed in major public collections, including the Musée d’Art Moderne de Paris and the Musée de Montmartre.

His bohemian spirit and devotion to Montmartre make him an emblematic figure of artistic freedom in the 20th century.

Market Value and Appraisal of Gen Paul’s Works

The market for Gen Paul’s works has seen renewed interest in recent years, fueled by the rediscovery of Montmartre painters and the modern avant-garde.
His dynamic, expressive canvases attract collectors for their spontaneity and visual energy.

Works from the 1925–1950 period, marked by a more nervous and cubist style, are particularly sought after.
Parisian scenes, musicians, and horses remain among his most popular subjects.

Selling a Work by Gen Paul at Auction

Our Modern & Contemporary Art Department specialists assist collectors and private owners in the valuation and sale of works by Gen Paul.
We offer free, confidential, and no-obligation appraisals, available online or by appointment.

For an initial evaluation, simply provide:

• Photographs of your work

• A detailed description (medium, dimensions, signature, condition)

• Any certificate, invoice, or known provenance

Our experts travel throughout France and Europe for on-site appraisals, in collaboration with our regional offices.

The Aguttes Modern Art Department organizes several annual sales dedicated to 20th-century painters, including Gen Paul, Utrillo, Vlaminck, Kisling, Buffet, and many others.

Contact our expert today to obtain a free valuation of your Gen Paul artwork and receive personalized guidance throughout the entire sale process.