Martin Drolling - 19th Century Oil Interior of a Kitchen

Description

Evoking the intimate domestic genre scenes of the Dutch Golden Age, this remarkable composition after the French painter Martin Drolling (1752-1817) depicts a humble interior bathed in light streaming through an open window, where two women sew quietly while a child plays with a cat. The original painting, now in the collection of the Louvre, has a remarkable, if slightly macabre, story. It was customary to preserve the hearts of members of the French royal family after their deaths. After the French Revolution, architect Louis-François Petit-Radel was tasked with disposing of these remains, but instead decided to sell them for use in the production of “mummy brown,” a highly prized pigment traditionally made from powdered mummy remains. Celebrated for its exceptional depth, luminosity, and transparency, the pigment was especially valued by artists of the period. Drolling acquired several of the royal hearts and used them to create the rich brown tonalities seen in 'Interior of a Kitchen'. A label affixed to the reverse reveals that the present work was given by Lord and Lady Sainsbury of Preston Candover to the Dyslexia Institute for its 25th anniversary 'Right to Read Auction' at Christie's in 1997. The work is well presented in a black frame with a gilt slip. Unsigned. On canvas on stretchers.

Condition

Signs of wear consistent with age, including discolouration and craquelure. Inspection under UV light reveals some areas of overpainting. Faint impressions from the stretchers. Despite the noted imperfections, the condition is good for a picture of this age. Light wear to the frame, including some faint scuffing and cracking.

Size

63.5 x 79cm (25.0" x 31.1")
Framed Size: 85.5 x 101cm (33.7" x 39.8")