Mid-18th-Century French School, Portrait Of A Gentleman With A Letter

Mid-18th-Century French School, Portrait Of A Gentleman With A LetterThis mid 18th century French oil painting depicts a composed gentleman shown half length against a softly graduated background, dressed in a finely cut brown coat fastened with gilt buttons over a white shirt and lace cravat. Tucked beneath his arm is a black tricorn hat edged in gold braid, while in his right hand he holds a folded letter sealed in red wax. Here, the handling is confident and refined. The flesh tones are built with subtle transitions

It’s such a beautiful little piece with pops of vibrancy and a skilful array of brush marks

somewhat lightheartedly

Scottish Colourist Samuel John Peploe (1871-1935) is considered a contributor to this school

this splendid piece from 1832 represents the earliest known work by this little-known artist

a multiple award-winner

It’s interesting that he collected works by the Flemish-born Dutch still life painter

It’s said that each generation passed their stories on to the next

It’s an enchanting decorative piece

A voile is diffusing the glare

During his time in the French capital

inscribed at the top and housed within a period frame

her creativity was inhibited when he became jealous of her talents