Emile Charles H. Lecomte-Vernet (1821-1900) - Fine 1860 Oil A Refined Gentleman

Description

A fine mid-19th century portrait by the accomplished artist Émile Charles H. Lecomte-Vernet (1821-1900), portraying a refined gentleman dressed in a formal coat adorned with a subtle decorative pin. The artist skilfully captures the sitter’s composed demeanour and direct gaze, rendering his features in meticulous detail. This is an exceptional example of Lecomte-Vernet's early work. Signed and dated to the lower right. Handsomely presented in an oval gilt frame. On canvas on stretchers.

Condition

The condition is typical for a painting of this age, including fine craquelure. Areas of light abrasion and staining. Small losses to the surface, notably to the right eye and the subject's badge. Inspection under UV light reveals some previous restoration. The frame shows signs of wear consistent with age, including some stable cracking, scuffing and losses to the beading.

Size

58 x 47cm (22.8" x 18.5")
Framed Size: 76 x 65cm (29.9" x 25.6")

Artist Biography

Emile Charles H. Lecomte-Vernet (1821–1900) was a French academic and Orientalist painter, born in Paris into a distinguished family of artists. He was the great-grandson of Claude Joseph Vernet and studied under his uncle Horace Vernet and Léon Cogniet. He began exhibiting at the Paris Salon in 1843 and gained early recognition for his portrait work. From 1847 onward, he became known for his Orientalist paintings, especially portraits of women from the Middle East and North Africa, which were popular in 19th-century France. Lecomte-Vernet also painted contemporary historical subjects, including scenes from the Crimean War and the 1860 Druze–Maronite conflict. One of his best-known works, Femme fellah portant son enfant (1864), was painted in Cairo and is now in the Musée de La Roche-sur-Yon. He continued to exhibit at the Salon until 1882 and also worked on public commissions, including murals in Paris churches and public buildings. He died in Paris in 1900 and is buried at Montmartre Cemetery. His work is held in several French museums and remains appreciated for its detailed technique and romanticised view of the East.