Albert Pierre Roberti (1811-1864) - 19th Century Watercolour The Serenade

Description

A very fine 19th century watercolour created by Belgian artist, Albert Pierre Roberti (1811-1864). A celebrated painter of historical and religious subjects, genre scenes, interiors, and portraits; Roberti studied art with Francois Joseph Navez at the Academy of Fine Arts in Brussels and became a professor at the school in 1854.

This wonderful example of Roberti's sought after work depicts two gentlemen, dressed in 18th century attire sitting on a wooden bench playing a lute, as they serenade the young lady positioned behind them. Their swords and outfits suggest they are soldiers taking a break in a stable or coach house. Influences have clearly been taken from the great Dutch painters of the 16th and 17th century, renowned for their interior scenes and depictions of everyday life. Entitled 'The Serenade' romantic and social connotations are also associated with this scene, as well as connections with a similarly titled work by Judith Leyster, a Dutch Golden Age painter.

Roberti's handling of the paint suggests an artist who has a clear understanding of tone and colour, with a confident hand and an eye for detail. Presented in an ornate gilt frame with beading detail.

Signed. On wove.

Condition

The condition is typical for a picture of this age including some discolouration and areas of minor foxing. The frame has some minor losses to the beading work along the inner edges. Also minor marks to the corners of the frame.

Size

26.5 x 17.5cm (10.4" x 6.9")
Framed Size: 49.3 x 40.4cm (19.4" x 15.9")

Artist Biography

Albert Pierre Roberti (1811-1864) was a celebrated painter of history, religious subjects, genre scenes, interiors, and portraits. Born in Brussels, Roberti passed away in 1864 in Louvain, Belgium. He studied with Francois Joseph Navez (1787 - 1869) at the Academy of Fine Arts in Brussels and became a professor at the same Academy in 1854.