(France, 1825-1883) Oil on canvas work titled, "The Arab Smoker." Exceptionally rendered Orientalist piece signed lower mid right. The work is in original unrestored condition with only a very small tear near the elbow of the subjects measuring 1". The work has not been re lined or cleaned. Bargue, aside from being the incredibly accomplished and talented painter that he was, is also known for his connection to Vinceent Van Gogh. Van Gogh trained himself to draw by repeated study and work with the Charles Bargue Drawing Course which then was mail order in France. There is a nearly identical, yet larger, work in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of art. This is possibly a study for that work. Canvas Size: H17 1/2" W11 3/8" (without frame) We are honored to offer this work on behalf of a surviving member of the Hill family of Aiken.The work was discovered in the early 20th century by Mrs. Mabel Caldwell Hill. Mrs. Hill, a native of Aiken, South Carolina, assembled a stunning collection during her travels throughout Europe in the 1940’s.” Mrs. Hill’s husband, an engineer during World War II, helped design parachutes, including the one that Amelia Earhart used in her first parachute jump. Mrs. Hill traveled the world with him and purchased art from some of the top dealers in Europe.

The work has a very small tear at right hand quadrant lower middle at the elbow of the subject. The piece has never been cleaned or professionally restored. The piece has one canvas lining to cover the hole which measures 1 1/2" horizontally and 3/4" vertically. Professional conservation will bring a tremendous amount of color once it is complete. The work is signed lower left and dated 75.