A splendid portrait of a young family, mother and her 2 children, watercolor by listed artist and portraitist, Theodor Schloepke (1812-1878). A German, he worked in Paris from 1855-57 with artist Horace Vernet, and at the request of his patron, Grand Duke Friedrich Franz II. While his main interest was the then-popular war and "orientalist" movement, lots of horses and action, he was also a superior portrait miniature artist. Best noted for his "orientalist" and war paintings, I think his portraits are of highest appeal. This one has such tenderness, reminiscent of compositions 50 years earlier, pencil sketches of intimate family groups by Gerard, even David. A young son, left (still in traditional 'dress', not yet into his knickers, and that beautiful baby in long gown, perhaps an event of christening. Beautifully matted and framed, the measurements are noted on our photos. Works by this listed artist range up to $4500 range, and are in museum collections as well as personal collections. Frame: 17” x 15”, and aperture: 10.5” x 9” watercolor inside mat.
Very good to excellent condition, perfectly preserved, dating c.1850s and in its original carved wood frame. You'll note that there is a slight painting flaw on the mouth of the young boy in blue. He has a poutines about him, and one wonders if perhaps the mother objected. We can't know. It is protected under glass which is old, a slight waviness to its 'laid' make, still in place and protecting the painting beautifully. Frame: 17” x 15”, and aperture: 10.5” x 9” watercolor inside mat.
