Antique Belgian Oil Painting of a Man at Lunch by Alex De Andreis 1880-1929

Description

The subject of this antique oil painting is a man enjoying lunch, as emphasized by the brass placard near the … more The subject of this antique oil painting is a man enjoying lunch, as emphasized by the brass placard near the bottom of the giltwood frame that reads Dejeuner (“lunch”), with the artist’s name “A de Andreis”. Based on the man’s style of dress, it appears as if de Andreis is depicting a cavalier from the mid-17th century. The gentleman is clad in a red doublet with a light gray colored jerkin with floral patterning. He also is wearing a white ruff-like collar and tan boots with riding spurs, all popular attire for cavaliers around 1620.

Our cavalier is currently enjoying his pipe and a drink while sitting at a small lyre leg table (once again pointing towards the 17th century) fitted with a white lace covering. Assorted nourishment can be seen on top of the table, including a plate of fruit next to a small serving piece with a spoon inside. There is a second chair across from the man that is currently the resting spot for his capotain hat, cloak, and what appears to be the hilt of a broadsword. Numerous furnishings fill the room, such as a large clock, a mantel, and a buffet, as well as some decorative art and a highly colored rug on top of the tiled floor. The signed painting is surrounded by a beautiful giltwood frame adorned with flowers, scrolls, and a textured border that is mottled with black and red.

Alex de Andreis was a Belgian painter born in 1880. Although de Andreis was active in the early 20th century, most of his paintings typically depict life in the 17th century. The cavalier was one of his most popular subjects, appearing in several portraits and still life paintings. De Andreis’ use of color and his ability to realistically depict bygone subjects make his art timeless and highly sought after. less