19th Century French School Nature Morte Oil on Canvas Painting in Giltwood Frame

Known in France as a nature morte, this oil on canvas painting is a wonderful still-life depiction of two recently felled birds on a table. The brightly plumed avians starkly contrast the variegated brown background and beige table on which they rest. A green apple has been placed next to the orange, black, and white bird in the foreground. Sprigs of greenery surround the other bird, which has cream and light blue feathers. The painting is signed “Felix” in the lower right corner and is encompassed within a giltwood frame with numerous layers of molding.

During the 19th century, an art movement transpired in France that led to an increased appreciation of nature. The Barbizon School, as it would eventually be known, was led by artists such as Manet, Degas, and Jules Dupre. Our nature morte painting is a well-rendered example of the movement, depicting birds, fruit, and foliage in a realistic manner.

CONDITION: Good antique condition. Traces of touchups to the gilt frame, with some small losses. Minor craquelure and a small scuff to the canvas. Signed in the lower right “Felix”.

H - 24, W - 30 1/4, D - 2 1/4