Brave Fine Art has dated this piece to the 19th Century.
As a young man, Balmer spent countless hours exploring the Northumberland coast with his uncle.
These early trips underpinned his love for painting and he returned to these themes time and time again. Here, we see various figures dismantling a beached ship. One sat upon a partially submerged cart while others work on the shore. Imagine young Balmer’s curious mind when he first encountered such events.
Many of his works were produced on small panels - picturesque, exquisitely rendered vignettes, which capture a moment in time. They exist like fleeting memories immortalised in oil. Each captured with sincerity and underlined by a deep respect for the North Sea.
This particular work was produced in 1839 towards the end of his career. In an obituary, his good friend John Wykeham Archer explained that soon after, Balmer disappeared into relative obscurity and retired from the public eye. A humble gentleman who sought truth over riches.
Signed/dated in the lower left and held in a gilt frame.
Medium: Oil on panel
Overall size: 12½” x 10½” / 32cm x 27cm
Year of creation: 1839
Condition: Artwork presents well. Fine craquelure but the paint is stable. Frame with some light wear.
Artist’s auction maximum: £5,406
George Balmer was predominantly self-taught but also worked alongside John Wilson Ewbank (c.1779-1847). His works are held in numerous public collections including at the British Museum, V&A, Tyne & Wear Museums, Lady Lever Art Gallery, and the Städel Museum Frankfurt.
Learn more about George Balmer in our directory.
Brave Fine Art has dated this piece to the 19th Century.
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George Balmer, the Dismantled Dutchman - Antique Oil Painting
