18th Century Old Master Painting English School, Circa 1775 - Conversation Piece

English school, circa 1775

Group portrait of a father and his two children

Oil on panel, 50 x 43.2 cm

Framed in an antique giltwood frame, exterior dimensions 63.5 x 56.5 cm

Provenance: private collection, France

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This painting depicts a man seated in an interior, accompanied by his two children standing by a table: a young boy with long blond hair and a young girl, slightly older, dressed in a white floral dress. The room is painted with great refinement; the furniture, oriental carpet and elegant curtains are rendered with delicacy and care. These indoor group portraits are known as "conversation scenes", a popular genre in the 18th century.

The furniture depicted in this fascinating work appears to be English. Conversation scenes were particularly popular in England, and this work recalls similar portraits by John Zoffany. Further research is needed to identify the artist.

Good condition considering its age, some craquelure and very minor usual defects visible.