This 19th-century oil painting by French artist Edouard Fleury (act. 1863-1900) depicts a still life with a basket of fruit.
During the mid-19th century, when Fleury undertook his formal education in Paris, still life painters sought inspiration from the Dutch and Flemish masters of yesteryear. Artists such as Cornelis de Heem (1631-1695) produced luscious works depicting expansive arrays of fruit tumbling from long tables and silver platters. Due to unprecedented demand, thousands were created, and as such, the artists became supreme at their craft - unsurpassed even today after four centuries.
Fleury’s homage to the 17th century is modest in grandeur but carries the same naturalistic qualities of his artistic forebears. The strawberries are a particular success.
Signed/dated lower right and held within a 20th-century frame.
Medium: Oil on canvas
Overall size: 21” x 18½” / 54cm x 47cm
Year of creation: 1875
Labels & Inscriptions: Framers label from Liege, Belgium.
Condition: Artwork presents well. Craquelure but the paint is stable. One old repair. Frame with some light wear.
Fleury trained under Thomas Couture (1815-1879) and Charles Monginot (1825-1900). He exhibited at the Paris Salon between 1863 and 1868.
Learn more about Edouard Fleury in our directory.
We care profoundly about our role as custodians and every piece in the collection has been assessed by our conservator. When required, we undertake professional restoration carefully using reversible techniques and adopt a light touch to retain the aged charm of each work. We also often restore frames rather than replace them as many are original and selected by the artists themselves.
