Signed in the lower right hand corner by the artist, this French nature morte (still life) painting is surrounded by a giltwood frame embellished with foliage, Vitruvian waves, and spiral fluting. The subject of the oil on canvas painting is a trio of felled birds displayed on a wooden table. A wicker basket can be seen behind the birds, with a green and orange tag hanging from one of the woven strands. There are a few stray feathers on the table, in front of a variegated black, brown, and gray background.

The first animal still life paintings date back to antiquity, although the genre was mastered by Dutch artists of the 16th to 18th centuries.  Still life paintings were of course also popular with artists throughout Southern Europe, including Italy, Spain, and France. A beautiful example of a nature morte, our 19th century oil painting is perfect for a den, study, or gentleman’s office.

CONDITION: Good condition with minor losses and age separations to giltwood frame. The frame has not been rigged for hanging purposes. Old touchups likely. Please see photos for details.