Stunning old watercolor depicting the majestic ruins of a Gothic abbey, set under a calm stormy sky where a few birds soar. The gaze rests on a large collapsed nave, pierced by arches and pointed windows, remnants of a glorious monastic past. The whole irresistibly evokes the ruins of the Abbey of Marmoutier in Tours — this Benedictine landmark founded by Saint Martin in the 4th century, whose remains have inspired so many Romantic artists of the 19th century. The composition, characterized by great finesse, mixes ink drawing and watercolor wash, capturing the diffuse light of an autumn afternoon. The monogram "JP" affixed in the lower right corner indicates a skilled hand, sensitive to decaying architectures and landscapes imbued with spirituality. Characteristics: Technique: Ink and watercolor on paper Signature: Monogram "JP" in the lower right corner Subject: Ruins of Gothic abbey (possibly Marmoutier in Tours) Period: 19th century Dimensions of the drawing: 22 × 30 cm (8.66 × 11.81 in) Frame: Antique gilded wooden frame with mat Condition: Very good overall condition, slight signs of time on the frame Provenance: Private French collection A romantic evocation of the past This work, steeped in silence and golden dust, embodies the 19th century fascination with Gothic ruins and the spiritual memory of forgotten places. Type: Watercolor Artistic movement: French school Country of origin: France Genre: Classicism Features: Framed, Signed Theme: Architecture