18th Century French Neoclassical Hand-Painted Panel on Canvas

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Description

Please note this the painting is dark as original photograph displays.

This exceptional late 18th-century Neoclassical hand-painted panel, crafted on … Read more Please note this the painting is dark as original photograph displays.

This exceptional late 18th-century Neoclassical hand-painted panel, crafted on canvas and mounted to a board, is a superb representation of the refined artistry of the era. At its heart is an octagonal grisaille medallion, delicately rendered in shades of gray to emulate classical bas-reliefs. The medallion depicts a pastoral scene of playful innocence: two young children, one joyfully riding a goat while a small dog chases the other child, their interaction capturing a sense of movement and vitality. This charming tableau reflects the period’s fascination with idyllic rural themes, paired with the elegance of classical art.

The medallion is framed by a striking array of Neoclassical decorative motifs, celebrating balance and symmetry. At the top of the composition, a proud rooster—perched atop a classical urn—stands as a symbol of vigilance and triumph, flanked by vibrant ribbons in rich red and blue, which cascade downward to frame the central scene. Above the rooster, the Prince of Wales’s feathers—three distinct plumes emerging from a coronet—add an element of regal symbolism, further elevating the composition.

On either side of the panel, hand-painted floral garlands and scrolling vines, rendered in soft greens with accents of red and blue blossoms, bring a sense of natural elegance. These decorative flourishes are balanced by gilded acanthus scrolls and symmetrical foliate motifs at the base, tying the overall composition together with classical harmony.

The painting rests against a pale ground, enhancing the vibrancy of the hand-applied pigments while maintaining an understated sophistication. The canvas, laid to a board for stability, is housed in its original gilded wood frame. The frame exhibits a richly aged patina and light wear consistent with its age, adding authenticity and historical depth to the piece. It is also signed "V-T" to the bottom, by an unidentified hand.

Measures:
20.5" w x 26.5" h. See less