It was listed by Brave Fine Art. Sold pieces stay on Sellingantiques as a record of what has passed through, and the next one is rarely far away.
Brave Fine Art has dated this Antique Oil Painting Portrait to the 18th Century.
The monarchy was overthrown, the Republic was established, and both King Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette were publicly executed. ‘Liberty, equality and fraternity’ replaced ‘absolutism, intention, and authority’.
Our pair witnessed it first hand, on the losing side - they were aristocrats, probably forced to hurriedly flee from the burning capital. Although not in full uniform, on the gentleman’s left arm, he wears a white silk armband, which is likely to be a reference to the Army of Condé. This ‘émigré’ army was counter-revolutionary and fought to overthrow the Republic, thus restoring the monarchy. They were assisted by royalist armies within France and also overseas allies, such as Great Britain. It’s interesting to consider the gentleman’s rather blasé expression in the midst of such drama.
The lady wears an early example of a neoclassical empire dress with a high waistband, designed to revive styles observed in Greco-Roman art.
Both are housed in later gilt frames.
Medium: Oil on paper laid on board
Overall size: 14½” x 17½” / 37cm x 44cm
Year of creation: c. 1795
Provenance: Private collection, Germany.
Condition: Cleaned. Areas of fine and settled craquelure, as you would expect. The paint layer is stable. Minor abrasions. Frame in good condition with minor age-related wear.
Our reference: BRV1929
Brave Fine Art has dated this Antique Oil Painting Portrait to the 18th Century.
Exquisite antique paintings that capture the imagination.
You can view the stock and full dealer information on the Brave Fine Art Profile Page
Late 18th-century French School, Pair of Companion Portraits - Antique Oil Painting
