A superb depiction of a Belgian or French countryside, a cow resting in pasture. The work is that of well-listed artist, Animalier, Eugen (Eugène) Joseph VERBORCKHOVEN (1798-1881, Brussels) and dates mid-1800s. The text on back is in French and tells us he was both sculptor, portraitist, landscape artist and Animalier, and that his work was particularly well accepted in France, America and England. A large number of his works survive, and are in collections of Royals and museums. He had lauded success in Brussels, Paris, London and St. Petersburg, and was given the Cross of the Legion of Honor. This elegantly accomplished small oil painting on wood panel, a contented cow in pastoral setting, is an exquisite sample of this artist's body of work. Perfect anatomy, fine composition in a small and intimate painting - almost could be considered a miniature. Splendid scale for a Bru or other antique French doll's house, too.
Very good to excellent condition for age and type. The very old frame is original to it, and does have age and a few spots to restore. Heavy hardwood, you can see the way it's constructed from behind. One would call it a School of Fontainebleau frame, I believe. Interesting mounting hardware, as well. Measurements are noted on the photos.
