An exquisite late-19th-century pastoral scene depicting a flock of grazing sheep, seated shepherd and resting dog. The artist, Joseph Paulman has captured the atmosphere of this rural idyll perfectly. It’s a romantic glance into a time gone by.

Its success is grounded in its perfectly balanced composition. Note how the heavy clouds on the right are offset by the trees that lean to our left. While the shepherd’s location provides an interesting focal point. Where else could you place the shepherd without unsettling the harmony?

Paulman is known for his Constable-esque idealised views of the English countryside and this is a very fine example of his work.

The painting is signed in the lower right and housed within a handsome gilded frame from the period.

Medium: Oil on canvas
Overall size: 21” x 17” / 54cm x 44cm
Year of creation: c. 1880
Provenance: England
Condition: Very presentable. A few light scratches but otherwise fine. Frame in good shape with some light age-related wear. A few areas of professional restoration.
Artist’s auction highlight: £2,700 achieved for ‘Stepping Stones/Returning at Dusk’ at Bonhams in 1997.