Alexandre Rochat: 20th-Century Swiss Painter of Natural Landscapes

Alexandre Rochat (1895-1981), born in Geneva, was a Swiss artist renowned for his ability to capture the essence of Swiss landscapes and genre scenes, reflecting an intimate and contemplative atmosphere. Though relatively undocumented in public archives, his work remains influential in Swiss and European art circles. From a young age, Rochat showed an interest in art, perfecting his techniques in Geneva, a place that would become central to his artistic inspiration and expression.

Artistic Training and Early Inspirations

Rochat developed a technical mastery in oil painting, watercolor, and gouache. These techniques allowed him to capture subtle light nuances and textures of Swiss environments, which he often reproduced in his landscapes and still lifes. His approach remained relatively traditional, yet it was enriched by a modern use of tones and compositions, influenced by Impressionist and Post-Impressionist movements. Rochat’s landscapes, such as those of Geneva and its surroundings, along with his urban and rural scenes, show his attachment to local subjects and his talent for creating calm, introspective atmospheres.

An Artist of Everyday Life: Notable Works

Among Rochat’s most notable works are his depictions of everyday life scenes and ordinary places like streets and cafes. One of his well-known works, “Rue avec un bar à tabac” (Street with a Tobacco Bar), shows an attentive eye for urban details, while his still lifes add a touch of poetry to common objects. Rochat favored a sober color palette, but his contrasts and shading added depth, creating scenes that are both realistic and romantic.

Career and Recognition in the Swiss Art Market

Throughout his career, Rochat primarily exhibited his works in Switzerland, gaining attention from local critics and art collectors. While his fame did not reach international heights, his work is highly valued in the Swiss art market. His pieces regularly appear in notable art auctions, including those at Dobiaschofsky Auctions and Koller Auctions, where they continue to attract interest. Dobiaschofsky, for example, has sold several of his works, attesting to the enduring collector interest in his creations.

Alexandre Rochat’s Style and Enduring Legacy

Rochat’s style combines realism with a touch of Impressionism, distinguishing him from his contemporaries. He prioritized harmony and tranquility in his compositions, allowing viewers to feel the simplicity and beauty of ordinary scenes. His works testify to his love for Switzerland and for environments characterized by quietude. Although Rochat was not an artist with a revolutionary style, he left a significant legacy in the Swiss art scene, adding a sensitive and observant voice to daily life.

Today, Alexandre Rochat’s works are appreciated for their ability to transport the viewer into a space of serene contemplation. They continue to find buyers and new admirers, demonstrating the timeless value of his artistic contributions.

Conditions de Vente

1. La vente a lieu strictement au comptant, en francs suisses et sans garantie.


2. Durant le(s) jour(s) d’exposition, les visiteurs peuvent déposer une offre d’achat signée ferme et définitive, dans une urne qui sera dépouillée par un des membre de la galerie à la fin de l’exposition ou sur notre site internet après avoir pris connaissance des présentes conditions. 

3. L’offre la plus élevée remportera l’objet. Le prix de l’objet est le montant de l’offre la plus élevée. 

4. L’acheteur ne paie aucun frais additionnels, le prix est TTC. 

5. L’exposition permettant aux acheteurs de se rendre compte de l’état des objets, il ne sera admis aucune réclamation après le dépouillement des urnes. Pour les offres à distance, des photos détaillées sont disponibles sur le site internet. 

6. Les profits et risques passent à l’acheteur dès l’attribution des lots et les achats tombent sous l’entière responsabilité de l’acheteur. Il ne devient toutefois propriétaire de l’objet qu’une fois le paiement complet effectué. 

7. Le paiement doit être effectué en francs suisses au plus tard dans les 7 jours suivant le dépouillement. Le dépouillement des urnes se fait au plus tard le jour suivant la fin de l’exposition. En cas d’offres identiques, les acheteurs sont avertis et peuvent réviser leurs offres. 

8. Les lots doivent être enlevés aux frais et risques de l’acheteur. Sauf achat au prix fort, aucun lot ne sera remis avant la fin de la vente et avant le paiement total du prix. Les objets qui n’ont pas été retirés dans les 7 jours à compter du dernier jour de la vente seront envoyés à l’adresse de l’acheteur par transporteur aux frais de l’acheteur. 

9. Tout litige relatif à la vente sera soumis à l’application exclusive du droit suisse et à la juridiction des tribunaux du canton de Genève, quel que soit le domicile des parties. 

Galerie Gijsel – Avenue Pictet de Rochemont 24 – 1207 Genève

Renseignements: par e-mail aryana@galeriegijsel.com – par Whatsapp +41795299923 

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