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Description

Title: Landscape Masterpiece Painting Windermere Sunrise by Alfred de Breanski Jr

Description: Antique British Impressionist Landscape Masterpiece Oil Painting – "Windermere from Bowness” During Sunrise by Alfred Fontville de Breanski Jr. (1877–1957)

Subject & Medium:

Presenting a masterful and atmospheric British landscape oil painting, titled:
"Windermere from Bowness”
This captivating work by Alfred Fontville de Breanski Jr. depicts the tranquil majesty of Lake Windermere at sunrise, viewed from Bowness in the Lake District. A golden hue breaks across the Autumnal morning, illuminating the rugged mountain peaks and serene stillness of the water below.

Medium: Oil on canvas
Signed: "A. Fontville” lower left and inscribed verso
Date: Circa 1920
Frame: Original, richly decorated giltwood frame

Composition & Technique:

Painted in the Impressionist-inflected realist style, Breanski's composition is a glowing tribute to the natural beauty of Cumbria. The tall peaks of the Lake District rise dramatically, catching warm light on their flanks, contrasted by the shadowed hillsides that frame the water in the foreground- creating a chiaroscuro effect full of depth and atmosphere.

Notable features include:

Golden light reflecting gently on the lake surface
A small sailing vessel docked in the distance
A lone shepherd with a red cap and flock grazing nearby
A trio of birds gliding low across the still water
Rich green and amber grasses, dotted with reeds at the water's edge
The brushwork is fluid and confident, with delicate layering used for misty skies and reflective water. The palette features:

Warm ochres and earth browns
Lush evergreens and burnt sienna tones
Soft grey and lavender skies, lightening near the horizon
This work radiates a sense of early morning calm, inviting the viewer into a timeless English lakeside moment.

About the Artist – Alfred Fontville de Breanski Jr. (1877–1957):

A member of the famed Breanski family of artists, Alfred Fontville de Breanski Jr. was the son of celebrated landscape painter Alfred de Breanski Sr. and painter Annie Roberts. He studied at St. Martin's School of Art, later working in France where he became acquainted with James McNeill Whistler- whose influence is felt in his atmospheric light and tonal palette.

Breanski Jr. was a prolific exhibitor, showing at the Royal Academy and Royal Society of British Artists. His landscapes, often focused on Scotland, Wales, and the English countryside, reflect his love for unspoiled nature and the harmony of land and light.

His works have been sold through major galleries and auction houses worldwide, with notable prices including over $20,000 USD for a Lake Coniston view sold in New York.

About the Location – Lake Windermere:

Lake Windermere is the largest natural lake in England, stretching over 11 miles in Cumbria's Lake District National Park. A hub of literary and artistic inspiration since the 19th century, Windermere has long been a symbol of British natural heritage.

The view from Bowness-on-Windermere, shown here, remains one of the most beloved and picturesque vantage points- frequented by painters, poets, and visitors alike.

Frame:

Housed in its original deep-set, ornate giltwood frame, this piece commands attention and enhances the depth and richness of the landscape.

Frame Dimensions:

Height: 71.5 cm
Width: 92 cm
Depth: 9 cm
Fitted with hanging thread – ready for immediate display.

Provenance:

From a private Shire collection, acquired via a notable middle Shire auction house, and now proudly offered by , specialists in fine British and landscape art.

Why You'll Love It:

Original signed painting by listed British landscape artist
Iconic subject – Lake Windermere from Bowness
Glowing light, fine detail & peaceful rural storytelling
Richly framed and ready to display
A museum-quality piece for country homes, collectors, or offices
A fine investment in English heritage art

Condition Report:

Painting Surface: Good overall condition with foxing, age-related craquelure, and subtle tonal variation, consistent with age
Frame: Solid and presentable with scuffs, chips, cracking, and minor pain touch up restoration appropriate to display

Reserve: $10,800.00

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Location: This item ships from United Kingdom

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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.

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