Early 20th-century Tonalist School, Landscape with Ruins - Antique Oil Painting

1900 - 1920

Sold by Brave Fine Art

Description

This early 20th-century Tonalist School oil on canvas depicts a lowland view with distant ruins.

Through a golden dreamlike haze, a winding river cuts across the lowlands towards a distant vanishing point. Three tiers of gentle hills are visible on the horizon. While on the right, smoke rises from a hidden dwelling - tucked behind the silhouette of a craggy ancient ruin.

The view is reminiscent of Belgian works from the early 20th century, particularly those from the Campine region. While the style is distinctly tonalist. Developed in the late 19th century, Tonalism reduces a composition to a generally low-key palette of hues. It was initiated by several American artists including James McNeill Whistler (1834-1903), whose misty creations remain haunting and atmospheric.

Signed illegibly in the lower left and housed within a later gilt frame.

Medium: Oil on canvas laid on board

Overall size: 26” x 22” / 66cm x 56cm

Year of creation: c. 1920

Condition: Artwork presents well. Frame with some light wear.

Physical Dimensions

Height

56cm (22.05")

Width

66cm (25.98")

Depth

4cm (1.57")

Declaration

Brave Fine Art has dated this piece to the 1920s.

Reference Numbers

Sellingantiques Reference

SA975124

Description

This early 20th-century Tonalist School oil on canvas depicts a lowland view with distant ruins.

“

Through a golden dreamlike haze, a winding river cuts across the lowlands towards a distant vanishing point.

Brave Fine Art

Three tiers of gentle hills are visible on the horizon. While on the right, smoke rises from a hidden dwelling - tucked behind the silhouette of a craggy ancient ruin.

fig 1. Early 20th-Century Tonalist School, Landscape With Ruins - Antique Oil Painting — fig 1. Early 20th-century Tonalist School, Landscape with Ruins - Antique Oil Painting

The view is reminiscent of Belgian works from the early 20th century, particularly those from the Campine region. While the style is distinctly tonalist. Developed in the late 19th century, Tonalism reduces a composition to a generally low-key palette of hues. It was initiated by several American artists including James McNeill Whistler (1834-1903), whose misty creations remain haunting and atmospheric.