Object Description
Pair of large Baroque style floral still life oil paintings
Continental, 19th Century
Canvas: Height 144cm, width 104cm
Frame: Height 170cm, width 112cm, depth 4cm
This dazzling duo of 19th-century still life oil paintings offers a lively rendition of floral opulence, its composition reflecting the revived influence of the Old Masters on 19th Century European painting.
Each work mirrors the other in structure and colour scheme, boasting an unusually vivid palette not commonly seen in this genre of art. A marigold vase serves as the epicenter in each piece, from which a stunning bouquet of meticulously rendered tulips, peonies, and other flowers burst forth in an explosion of red, blue, pink, white, yellow, and orange hues. Interspersed within these bountiful bouquets, dark green foliage brings an intriguing counterpoint to the riot of colour and transitions into a dark background.
The second canvas enhances the theme, introducing an additional vase brimming with blossoms placed upon architectural features, thereby enriching the visual feast of floral profusion. Viewed side by side, the two paintings form an almost mirrored image, each balanced with curvilinear architectural elements on opposing sides.
On the two paintings, a backdrop of lush, dark green trees provides a harmonious contrast, allowing the bright floral compositions to shine spectacularly against it. On top of both paintings. a serene pastel blue sky punctuated with billowy cream and white clouds unifies the scenes and further enhances the illusion of the two pieces merging into one, separated only by the gilded frame.
In true homage to the Old Masters, whose works were synonymous with grandeur and precision, these paintings are characterised by opulence, symmetry, and vivacity.
The pair of paintings is housed in ornate giltwood frames which are uniquely shaped, their intricate carvings adding to the overall elegance of the pieces. Exuding vibrancy, richness of colour, and deft craftsmanship, this splendid pair of still-life paintings would serve as a luxurious focal point in any interior setting.