Description

A pair of signed watercolors by Avenir Trouskovsky (1885–1962) depicting Thessaloniki and its historic fortifications. The first presents an elevated view across the city toward the Thermaic Gulf, framed by massive stone-and-brick defensive walls. The second shows a shepherd guiding his flock beneath another section of the fortified hillside, with a dog pausing at the edge of the road. Together, the works balance architectural observation with quiet details of everyday life, rendered in a clear, restrained palette of blue, green, ochre, and warm masonry tones.

Trouskovsky’s carefully articulated walls contrast beautifully with the delicacy of the distant city, sea, animals, and figures. Particularly charming details include the birds perched on the battlements in the city view and the wonderfully alert little dog accompanying the shepherd. Offered together, the watercolors form a distinctive record of Thessaloniki before much of its modern expansion.

Avenir Trouskovsky was a Russian-born artist who became closely associated with Thessaloniki, where he repeatedly painted the city’s streets, markets, monuments, waterfront, and Byzantine fortifications. Biographical documentation remains limited, but surviving works and auction records consistently identify 1885–1962 as his dates and demonstrate his sustained interest in Thessaloniki and its surrounding life. His watercolors are characterized by precise architectural observation, lucid color, and an understated documentary quality that preserves both the physical appearance and everyday atmosphere of the historic city. Comparable subjects by Trouskovsky include views of the Acropolis walls, the Prophet Elijah district, city streets, and shepherds around Thessaloniki.

Object Details

Artist: Avenir Trouskovsky
Dates: 1885–1962
Title:Two Views of Thessaloniki
Medium: Watercolor on paper
Subjects: View over Thessaloniki and the Thermaic Gulf from the historic fortifications; shepherd and flock before fortified walls
Signatures: Each signed Avenir Trouskovsky—one at lower right and one at lower left
Presentation: Framed under glass in matching silver-toned frames with cream fabric-covered mats
Dimensions: Add sight and framed measurements once confirmed
Sale format: Offered individually or as a pair

Condition

Both works appear to be in good vintage condition, with colors remaining attractive and clearly legible. There is visible overall toning and discoloration to the cream fabric-covered mats, along with scattered spotting, surface marks, and general wear consistent with age. The silver-toned frames show scratches, small abrasions, finish wear, and minor separation or wear at some corners. The watercolors have not been examined outside their frames; therefore, the condition of the full sheets, reverse sides, and mounting materials cannot be confirmed. Frames, mats, and glazing are included as-is.

Purchase Details

Price: $250 each, or $550 for the pair
Shipping quoted separately. Please inquire for additional photographs, condition details, or a shipping estimate.