Description
Subject & Medium
This is a stunning mid-19th-century watercolour titled “Mary Queen of Scots: The Last Farewell”, created by renowned Dutch genre painter Christoffel Bisschop and dated 1855. Signed by the artist, this emotionally charged and historically significant work is protected under glass in its original ornate gilt frame — a museum-quality piece ready to grace any collection.
? Composition & Technique
Bisschop’s masterful watercolour technique brings delicate life and profound drama to this iconic historical moment. Every brushstroke is layered with care — from the soft, transparent washes lighting Mary’s white blouse and mourning veil, to the textured depth of her rich brown fur shawl and deep blue skirt. The contrast between smooth fabrics, rough stone, and shimmering leaded glass gives the piece a tactile richness you can almost feel.
The colour palette is powerfully restrained: muted whites, warm earth tones, deep navies, and soft golden light filtering through the window. This subtle blend creates a solemn, emotionally heavy atmosphere that magnifies the tension and sorrow of the scene.
The composition draws you in: Mary stands gracefully at the foot of the oak staircase, head bowed in dignified resignation. By the open window, a grieving man and woman lean forward, their faces etched with sadness, hands gently resting as they watch her final moments. The light falling across the dim room creates a poignant contrast between the world she is about to leave and the one that awaits. Bisschop’s work transforms this historical farewell into an immersive, emotionally gripping masterpiece.
Signature
The artwork is signed by Christoffel Bisschop in the lower area, a mark of authenticity and a testament to his personal touch on this moving historic scene.
About the Artist
Christoffel Bisschop (1828–1904) was a celebrated Dutch painter and lithographer, best known for his evocative genre scenes. A student of leading European masters, Bisschop exhibited widely across the Netherlands, France, England, and the U.S., including the prestigious Philadelphia Centennial Exposition. His works are held in major museum collections, such as the Fries Museum, which preserves his studio and personal artifacts alongside his wife Kate Bisschop-Swift’s works. His top auction price to date reached $30,197 USD at Christie’s Amsterdam.
History of Mary, Queen of Scots
Mary Stuart, Queen of Scots (1542–1587) was crowned Queen of Scotland as an infant and became Queen Consort of France through marriage. Her reign was marked by political intrigue, religious turmoil, personal tragedies, and ultimately imprisonment by her cousin, Queen Elizabeth I of England. After 18 years in captivity, Mary was executed for treason — a dramatic downfall that transformed her into one of history’s most romanticized and tragic figures, inspiring centuries of art, literature, and legend.
Frame
Presented in its original ornate gilt frame with protective glass cover — elegant and ready for display in any fine collection or historic setting.
Size
Frame dimensions: 39 cm high x 31 cm wide x 2.5 cm deep
Provenance
Includes provenance label verso from a high-end Shire auction, now held in the collection.
Why You’ll Love It
A historically important and emotionally powerful fine art treasure
A rare signed work by a respected 19th-century Dutch master
A dramatic conversation piece for collectors, historians, or royal enthusiasts
A timeless decorative addition for elegant home, office, or private gallery display
Comes ready to hang with back-mounted thread
This painting delivers not only visual beauty but also deep narrative impact, making it a memorable addition to any serious collection.
� Condition
Offered in fine used condition. The watercolour surface is well preserved with some foxing stains; the frame shows general wear, scratches, cracking, fading, and small paint losses consistent with age. Ready for immediate display.
� Shipping
International worldwide shipping available — please contact us for a personalized quote.
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Reserve: $5,400.00
Shipping:
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In the rare event that the item did not conform to the lot description in the sale, Chairish Auctions specialists are here to help. Buyers may return the item for a full refund provided you notify Chairish Auctions within 5 days of receiving the item.
Condition
Used
Buyer's Premium
20%
Painting Tudor Monarch Noble Mary Stuart Queen Of Scots By Christoffel Bisschop
Estimate $6,000-$7,000
Starting Price
$2,600
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Meet the Auction House
10404
4.5
53469
Historic Oil Portraits and Period Interior
Feb 26, 2026 4:00 PM ESTNew York, NY, United States
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