Charles-François Daubigny #7

Charles-François Daubigny: The Botin, 1857(?).

"In 1857, in order to be even closer to his subject and to the water he loved to represent, Daubigny bought a boat, which once served as a ferry : the “Botin”. He had a cabin installed, to provide shelter in case of bad weather, and if necessary to sleep. This became his Studio Boat.

Every summer, he went to Auvers-sur-Oise, a peaceful village close to Valmondois, where he had spent part of his childhood. The Vaux Island became his main homeport. With the “Botin” he sailed on the rivers and even went up to Honfleur. Karl, the “ship’s boy” would accompany him. Then, after several stays on the “Côte Fleurie” in Normandy, he decided to return to Auvers-sur-Oise to settle."


The scale model of the Botin, first boat-studio of Charles François Daubigny. (bron: La Maison-Atelier de Daubigny)


Le Botin, reconstruction, 2017. (bron: chasse-marée)

"Over time, the “Botin” started taking on water, had to be retired. It ended its life in the garden, as a bar and a shelter. It was then replaced by the “Bottin”, larger and better equipped for sailing. This new boat was ready to go in 1868. At the same time Bernard became the boy’s boat whereas Karl was promoted Captain!"


Charles-François Daubigny: Le Botin, 1869. (bron: Institut Français)


Scale model of the Botin. The scale models of both boats were built by Daubigny’s descendant, Daniel Raskin. (bron: chasse-marée)