19th Century French Neoclassical Gouache of Flora and Putto in Giltwood Frame

$1,500

About

Bring graceful Neoclassical charm to a bedroom, powder room, dressing area, or gallery wall with this delicate antique French painting. Crafted in France circa 1850, the gouache and watercolor composition depicts an allegorical female figure, Flora, the classical goddess of spring and flowers, floating upon a cloud beside a playful putto.

Presented within a pale blue oval reserve against a deep charcoal ground, the elegantly draped figure holds a small floral garland while the wingless putto raises additional blossoms toward her. The softly modeled faces, flowing garments, restrained palette, and airy celestial setting reflect the refined Neoclassical taste popular during the early 19th century. Warm terracotta, cream, powder blue, and muted green tones lend the composition a gentle decorative quality.

The artwork is housed under glass in its period molded giltwood frame, which retains an attractive aged surface with scattered rubbing, minor losses, and mellow patination consistent with its age. The reverse preserves an older wood frame and board backing fitted with a simple hanging device. The work appears unsigned.

Both intimate and decorative, this antique allegorical painting would display beautifully on its own or as part of a collection of classical, religious, or Grand Tour works. It is in excellent condition commensurate with age and use, with minor surface marks, and age-related imperfections.

Dimensions: 12” W x 15” H

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