What is genre artwork?

Genre artwork represents scenes from everyday life, such as domestic interiors, market stalls, and street activities. These compositions focus on ordinary people rather than historical events or mythological figures. Artists used these subjects to tell stories, capture contemporary manners, and document the social conditions of their time.

How do I care for oil paintings?

Oil paintings require stable indoor environments away from direct sunlight and rapid temperature fluctuations. Keep the canvas clean by gently dusting the surface with a soft, dry brush. Avoid using moisture or chemical cleaners on the paint surface. Consult a professional restorer for cleaning or conservation work.

How do I date a 19th century painting?

Dating relies on signatures, artist biographies, exhibition labels, and stylistic markers such as costume and interior decoration. Frame styles can also provide clues, though frames are frequently replaced over time. Canvas stamps and inscriptions on the reverse of the stretcher or board often reveal manufacturer details and specific dates.

Are watercolours as durable as oils?

Watercolours on paper are sensitive to light and require framing behind glass with acid-free mounts to prevent fading. They demand careful placement away from direct sunlight. When properly protected and glazed, watercolours maintain their delicate pigments and transparency for generations.