This lot consists of a masterful oil painting on velum, done in the nuanced, expressive style of Jean-Baptiste "J.B." Greuze (French, 1725-1805). Reverse side of piece features a tiny handwritten inscription just below the upper edge of the frame: "J.B. Greuze 1784". This unframed piece measures approximately 12.75" x 10.5".

A disarming portrait of a young child, rendered with expressive brushstrokes and an amazing sensitivity to detail. Particularly impressive are the folds of the child's garments and the tiny glimmer of light suspended in two rich, brown eyes. A tender image that would make a fine addition to any collection.

Jean-Baptiste "J.B." Greuze (French, 1725-1805) was one of the leading painters of the 18th century. Greuze is known for his melodramatic genre of portraiture, often focusing on women, lessons of morality, and the depiction of his more dignified contemporaries, such as Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart (Austrian, 1756-1791) and Benjamin Franklin (American, 1706-1790). Greuze enjoyed considerable success during his lifetime, with recognition from European nobles and a number of exhibits across the continent.

PROVENANCE:
Private Collection from Upstate New York

DIMENSIONS:
Unframed approx. 12.75" x 10.5".



Finger Lakes Auction has been commissioned to liquidate a once-in-a-lifetime fine art collection from an Upstate New York Estate. Pieces contained in this auction are some of the finest paintings ever to be offered through our Art Gallery.

PLEASE NOTE: Lots that do not carry established documented provenance nor any past auction record are described in this catalog as "in the style of". Authentication has not been established nor is it implied. Definition of "in the style of" is as follows:

"In the style of" [Artist Name] : The work may be ascribed to the artist on the basis of style, but there may be some question as to actual authorship.

Overall fair condition. Some minor tears have been sustained at some of the corner edges. The painting itself shows minimal evidence of its age; some crackling and fading is to be noted. Overall, the image remains rich and striking. Please examine photos for further reference.