Jean Dufy

French, 1888-1964

Jean Dufy was a French painter and printmaker known for his vibrant depictions of Parisian life, jazz clubs, horse races, and urban architecture. Born in Le Havre, he was the younger brother of Raoul Dufy, who introduced him to the Paris art scene and artists like Pablo Picasso. His first exposition at the Berthe Gallery in 1914 consisted of watercolors with a muted and dreary tone. His later works, however, reflect his growing confidence and bright colors.

Working within post-Impressionist France, Jean developed a style marked by rhythmic lines and expressive color. His work reflects jazz influences and the energy of city life, creating a lively visual narrative of early 20th-century France. 

Dufy’s work blends sweeping Post‑Impressionist color fields with rhythmic line, reflecting both his decorative arts experience and the cultural energy of Montmartre between the wars. Though active before WWII, his career gained new momentum afterward, largely due to the refined artistic maturity of the time. Dufy’s paintings continue to show popularity at Doyle auctions in Impressionist and Modern sales.