This enchanting 19th-century landscape painting by Belgian artist Edmond De Schampheleer (1824-1899) depicts a peaceful view across a picturesque river.

It evokes the quiet bliss of an endless Summer’s day. 

De Schampheleer’s brushwork is majestic - he’s trying to capture nature’s poetry with sincerity and expression. The scenery ebbs and flows, each component connected to the next, either with harmony or contrast. Note the gaps between the clouds, which create a sense of spaciousness when compared to the dense horizon. And the reeds in the foreground - striking verticals that add depth to the composition. 

De Schampheleer enjoyed working directly from nature and for a time associated with the French ‘Barbizon School’ painters. These are considered to be some of the first to truly embrace painting ‘en plein air’ and they’re seen as a precursor to the impressionists. 

Learn more about Edmond De Schampheleer in our directory.

Medium: Oil on canvas
Overall size: 36” x 24½” / 92cm x 62cm
Year of creation: c. 1880
Condition: Artwork presents well. Craquelure but the paint is stable. Frame with some light wear.
Artist’s auction highlight: £7,904 achieved for an oil painting in 2000.