An intriguing early 20th-century oil on canvas depicting three gentlemen having a heated conversation in a dark old study. The artist has drawn our attention to the mean-looking bearded chap in the centre who is lit by a gas lamp. He seems to be holding a pipe or a small cup in his right hand as he stares intently across to his associate.

It’s interesting to consider how this painting came into being as it’s not your typical genre scene. Could it be a group of artists discussing the ever-evolving styles on the continent? Or perhaps it was a commission by the gentleman in the centre for his own home.

We may never know the true story but it’s certainly a fascinating piece.

The painting is housed within a gilded wooden frame.

Medium: Oil on canvas
Overall size: 29” x 24” / 73cm x 63cm
Year of creation: c. 1910
Provenance: Denmark
Condition: A little tatty with craquelure, a few losses and abrasions - although the paint layer seems stable. There’s also a visible area of varnish in the top right. In our opinion, this is fine to hang if you prefer your artwork in its found condition. But we’re also able to restore it should you wish. Frame with light age-related wear.