Willard Morse Mitchell — At the Mouth of the Historic Saguenay River

This charming miniature watercolour by Willard Morse Mitchell captures a serene riverside chapel perched above the widening expanse of the Saguenay as it meets the St. Lawrence. Mitchell paints with his characteristic delicacy: soft washes of rose-tinted sky, drifting blue birds, and layers of pale lavender water that recede toward distant headlands.

In the foreground, a white picket fence and lush garden blooms—pinks, reds, and scattered lupin blues—frame the scene with intimate warmth. The small chapel, with its bright terracotta roof, golden cross, and simple lancet windows, becomes the focal point, nestled against dense green foliage. The gentle, pastoral mood is heightened by the artist’s light, almost storybook touch, making the composition feel both nostalgic and atmospheric.

Mitchell’s skill in miniaturist technique is evident in the crisp architectural details and the precise handling of tiny paint strokes that bring flowers, trees, and water into lively harmony. The work exemplifies his ability to portray iconic Quebec settings with charm, clarity, and a quietly poetic sensibility.