The store will not work correctly when cookies are disabled.
We use cookies to make your experience better.To comply with the new e-Privacy directive, we need to ask for your consent to set the cookies. Learn more about our cookies policy.
A fine romantic study of two figures in a forest. The male 'Strephon' in the painting (the traditional term for the male lover in pastoral poetry) stands with his dog while a pretty young girl hides behind a tree. In the distance, a church spire can be set against the setting sun and a flock of sheep graze in a nearby meadow. This scene was typical in late 18th-century art, and artists such as Richard Westall (1765-1836) painted the two lovers several times. There are numerous engravings and drawings of 'Strephon and Phyllis' the origins of which can be traced back to pastoral poetry. Gilbert and Sullivan used these themes in their 1882 musical 'Iolanthe' which features the characters Phyllis and Strephon.
A handwritten label to the reverse details a now eroded inscription on the reverse of the metal plate. The label appears to have been written down by a previous owner of the artwork, a 'Mr. Baxter'.
The painting is well presented in an ornate gilt effect frame with swept corners. Unsigned. On metal.
Condition
The condition is typical for a picture of this age including some surface dirt. There is some light craquelure and very fine flakes of paint loss to the outer edges. Inspection under UV light reveals no restoration.
