Figures Playing a Game of Bowls, 18th Century; Follower of David Teniers (1610–1690)

This very finely painted oil on canvas has all the hallmarks of an artist closely following David Teniers (1610-1690), the court painter to Archduke Leopold Wilhelm, Governor of the Spanish Netherlands. Scenes of peasants drinking and merrymaking in villages were a popular theme in the low countries during the 17th century. Signs of excess, drinking and smoking for example, were often incorporated as we see here. However the artist in this case was less concerned with preaching than with conveying the mood of the spectators. The figures can be dated to about 1650.

The artist treats a theme that may be traced back at least a century to Tenier’s father in law, Pieter Bruegel the Elder (1568-1625). The present large scale work was painted in the early 18th century. Teniers favoured scenes of peasant life, which were very popular among Teniers's wealthy, urban clientele, for whom they must have had a decorative and picturesque quality. That such sunny spirits prevailed in the countryside was a view mostly entertained in the city. He is best remembered as the leading Flemish genre painter of his day. More than 20 compositions by Teniers on the subject of ball games are known.

Held in a superb quality 19th century gilt gesso frame with brass presentation label.

Provenance: with Agnew's, London; sold Christie's, London, 16 June 1916, lot 31; and thence by descent

Measurements: Height 86cm, Width 102cm framed (Height 33.75”, Width 40”)

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