18th Century European Farewell Genre Scene Palace Garden Oil Canvas Framed ^Sale

This genre scene in oil on canvas, painted by an unknown artist in the 18th century, transports the viewer to a garden terrace before a majestic palace. The composition is constructed as a captivating theatrical episode, where each character plays their role. The father in a broad-brimmed hat offers a farewell glass of wine to his son in an elegant red coat, evidently preparing for a long journey; behind the young man, his mother stands motionless with a parting letter in her hand. Slightly further away, in the centre of the canvas, the young nobleman’s pregnant wife is depicted: she stands, leaning against a stone balustrade, gazing languidly in his direction. Near the saddled steeds, his faithful servant-squire in campaign uniform is depicted, tenderly bidding farewell to his beloved maid, and beside them the steward stands motionless with a bottle of wine and a glass. An unexpected detail, introducing a grotesque note into this mise-en-scène, is the figure of a priest, observing everything happening from the upper tier of the balustrade. The receding perspective of the park with a fountain, the soft nuances of evening light and the deep tones of the foliage create an intimate, slightly theatrical atmosphere. This painting in a relaxed, slightly ironic manner tells us of duty, love and parting, and will become a true find for collectors of European genre painting.
DETAILS:
Artist: Unsigned. Unidentified European professional artist.
Medium: Oil on canvas.
Image dimensions (approx.): 37 x 44.8 cm (14.6 x 17.6 inches).
Condition: Overall in pretty good condition with wear, losses, repairs, retouches and slight craquelure, canvas relined.
Framed dimensions (approx.): 49 x 57.5 cm (19.3 x 22.6 inches).
Frame: Overall in fair condition, with age-related wear including scuffs, chips and repainted areas.
Shipping: Approx. weight 1 kg; packed approx. weight 2-3 kg. Secure, insured worldwide shipping available.
Notes: Please refer to the high-resolution photographs, which form part of the condition report. Colours and tonal values may vary when viewed in person, depending on viewing conditions and ambient lighting.