Painted by the renowned 19th-century French artist, Charles Edouart (sometimes spelled “Edouard”) Delort, this vibrant oil on canvas painting depicts a large silver fish being presented to a Catholic cardinal and bishop. It is symbolic of the observance of the canon law of the Latin Church, which requires the abstinence of meat on Fridays, hence the title of the painting, Fish Friday. This style of art, sometimes referred to simply as “cardinal paintings”, became quite popular at the Paris Art Salons during the late 19th century, as the Third Republic (the French system of government after 1870) began to distance itself from the church. This satirical genre was meant to shed light on the opulent lifestyles of the high-ranking ecclesiastical elite.
A defining trait of cardinal paintings is the depiction of one or more cardinals in a bright red robe, merrily enjoying the riches of their daily lives. Notice the vivacity of the cardinal’s vestments, especially when compared to the bishop dressed in black behind him. The presenter of the fish is dressed in neutral colors, such as beige and white, further allowing the cardinal to stand out. A green table with a matching bench can be seen to the side of the trio of men. A silver serving set is on top of the table, along with some porcelain cups, while a book and some papers lay on the bench. On the opposite side of the table is a caned chair that resides in front of a long stone bench. The bench is built into a gray stone wall topped with a classical urn filled with a tall bouquet of red flowers. In the background is a small hill with trees lining the crest.
Delort was born in Nimes, France in 1841. At the age of 18, Delort entered the studio of Charles Gleyre, who would later mentor the likes of Renoir and Monet. Delort debuted at the Paris Salon in 1866 and would regularly exhibit for the next decade, mainly painting scenes that detailed life in the 18th and 19th centuries. Considered an academic painter, Delort had an innate ability to render amazing colors in his works, as evidenced by this “Fish Friday” painting.
CONDITION: Very good antique condition with minor buildup and small losses to the frame. The colors of the paint are still vibrant and present well. Rigged on the back for hanging purposes. Please see photos for details.
