This evocative 19th-century plein-air oil painting by Belgian artist Joseph Van Luppen (1834-1891) depicts a river view in Hastière, Wallonia, Belgium.

Van Luppen describes this chilly autumnal day with skill and tonal mastery. The river, shimmering in white, sweeps around and catches various reflections. While towards the muddied banks, the transitional passages are handled adroitly. Distant figures are little more than a few suggestive marks, yet carry weight. With the darker foreground rendered in greater detail.

It’s reminiscent of works by the Barbizon School of painters, who were the first to truly embrace painting completely outdoors. Théodore Rousseau (1812-1867) was one of the most accomplished and trained Van Luppen in Paris. The unconventional composition is particularly Rousseau-esque and designed in horizontal layers. Even the clouds are near linear. And note how low we are. A complex task to achieve well.

It’s a wonderful example of Van Luppen’s keen appreciation of nature. A year prior to completing this work, he debuted at the Royal Academy in London.

Signed/dated lower left and held within a later frame.

Medium: Oil on canvas
Overall size: 28” x 18” / 71cm x 45cm
Year of creation: 1875
Labels & Inscriptions: Interesting painted label on reverse with title and date.
Provenance: Private collection, Belgium.
Condition: Artwork presents well. Frame with some light wear.
Artist’s auction maximum: £6,040

Joseph Van Luppen

Joseph Van Luppen was an accomplished Belgian painter of landscapes, often imbued with a sense of grandeur and traditional romanticism. He trained at the Antwerp Art Academy under Jacob Jacobs (1812–1879) and later in Paris under the eminent Barbizon School painter, Théodore Rousseau (1812-1867). His works are held in numerous public collections including the Royal Museums of Fine Arts Belgium, the V&A, and the National Museum in Cardiff.

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