19th century school, follower of Vallayer Coster, painting of flowers, HST 84cm x 97cm

18th century French school, oil on painted rectangular canvas with oval view. Still life depicting a rich bouquet of multicolored flowers, in a blue porcelain vase with gilt bronze mounting, set on an entablature. Dating from the late 18th century, our beautiful painting is presented in a very rich oval wood and gilded stucco frame, which itself dates from the late 19th century.

A beautiful painting of flowers, very scrupulously executed by a follower or pupil of Anne Vallayer Coster. The bouquet appears to be in relief, giving the illusion that it can be touched. A fine amateur piece, with a spectacular composition, enhanced by the rich wood frame gilded with gold leaf.

Anne Vallayer-Coster (1744-1818) was one of the most prestigious female painters of the 18th century, admitted to the Académie Royale de Peinture in 1770. Although she made a name for herself with her delicate portraits, she is best known as a painter of still lifes, particularly flowers. From an early age, she was under the protection of Queen Marie-Antoinette, who appreciated artists and especially female painters. Diderot said of her at the Paris Salon in 1771. "Melle Vallayer astonishes us as much as she enchants us. It is nature rendered here with an inconceivable strength of truth, and at the same time, a harmony of colors that seduces."
This painting, the work of a follower, is a condensed version of her style.

Our painting is in very good original condition, oil on canvas, well preserved, with a few slight old restorations. The frame is also superb: it was made especially for this painting and they have been together for almost 140 years. Painting and frame cleaned by our restorers. Cabinet Turquin appraisal label on the back.

Frame: 84.5cm x 97.5cm
Panel: 60cm x 73cm

Ref: VKJPOZSHIN