On April 21st the New York galleries of international auctioneers, Bonhams, will present an eagerly awaited European Paintings sale marked by an excellent selection of Old Masters as well as 19th Century works.
Featuring paintings by artists from the French, German, Scandinavian, Dutch, Italian and British Schools, the 19th Century works to be presented include several attractive lots. Quite possibly the most sought-after work in this group is an extravagant pair of still-lifes by Franz Xaver Petter (Austrian, 1791 – 1866).
Filling Petter’s work are flowers and fruit, augmented by the exoticism of parrots. Overflowing with color and a myriad of textures, it displays a virtuoso technique that is on par with the Dutch flower painters of the previous century. Demonstrating an extraordinary level of technical skill and technique, the lot carries an estimate of $180,000-220,000.
Also drawing much pre-sale attention is a rare work by Henryk Siemiradzki (Polish, 1843-1902), an artist known for his scenes of Classical antiquity. A sun-filled scene of Romans resting on a veranda, The Patrician’s Siesta, is executed with a complete understanding of the effect of the strong Italian sun as it falls through leafy trees in the heat of the afternoon. Estimated at $75,000-100,000, the lot is certain to inspire competitive bidding.
Not to be overlooked is a charming work by Victor Gilbert (French, 1847-1935). With the flower markets of Paris dominating his oeuvre, it is fitting that going to block will be a lovely example of Gilbert’s work titled, The Flower Shop. Estimated at $15,000 – 20,000, this intimate painting depicts a small shop on a side street in Paris where a nursemaid and her small charge have come to make a purchase. The bustling streets of Paris can be seen at the end of the quiet thoroughfare providing a counterpoint to the intimate scene taking place in the foreground.
Comprised of ninety-one lots, the Old Masters section also boasts many desirable paintings as well as drawings.
Highlighting this section is a painting by Leonardo Coccorante (Italian, 1680-1750). Depicting a capriccio view with ruins and figures in the foreground and the sea beyond, the work is typical of the artist’s oeuvre in both imagery and handling. Estimated at $20,000 – 30,000 the work is expected to attract strong bidding.
Amongst the many drawings of note is an exquisite portrait by one of France’s most famous female artists of the 18th Century, Elisabeth Vigee le Brun (French, 1755-1842). Featuring Corisande de Gramont - Countess of Tankerville - the lovely pastel is fresh to market, coming directly from the 10th Earl of Tankerville. Rich in family background, the work carries a pre-sale estimate of $15,000 -20,000.
Also sure to garner collector attention is a pen and wash drawing by Giovanni Battista Tiepolo (Italian, 1696-1770) titled Time and Truth. Once belonging to the celebrated collection of Professor William Bateson of Cambridge University, it has not been recorded since 1929. Of impeccable provenance, the piece is estimated at $12,000 -18,000.
