Henry Campotosto (brussels 1833 – London 1910) Young Reaper With A Bouquet From The Fields.

Henry Campotosto (Brussels 1833 – London 1910)
Young Reaper with a Bouquet from the Fields
London, 1872

A remarkable oil on panel by the Belgian painter Henry Campotosto, depicting a young reaper holding in her arms a sheaf of wheat intertwined with freshly picked wildflowers. Draped in an elegant dress in deep shades of purple, the young woman stands out gracefully against a rural landscape enlivened by a few small figures in the distance, gathered around a fire in the countryside.

This highly sensitive composition perfectly illustrates the artist’s talent. The face, rendered with rare finesse, immediately captures the viewer’s attention with its gentle expression, delicate skin tones, and subtle modeling. The harmony of the colors, the quality of the light, and the overall balance of the scene attest to the mastery of a painter who had reached full artistic maturity. The composition is particularly successful, combining poetry, elegance, and realism in a remarkable balance.

Born in Brussels in 1833, Henry Joseph Campotosto trained under the famous engraver Luigi Calamatta before enrolling at the Royal Academy of Fine Arts in Brussels, where he studied under François-Joseph Navez and Eugène Verboeckhoven. Quickly recognized for his artistic talents, he participated in major Belgian and international art salons and earned a solid reputation among connoisseurs of 19th-century genre painting.

Settling in London in 1871, he pursued a brilliant career in England, where he exhibited regularly at the Royal Academy as well as at London’s major exhibitions. His works are now part of several public collections and museums, while his most accomplished compositions remain particularly sought after on the art market.

Our painting is of particular interest as it is signed in the lower left corner and dated London 1872, corresponding to the artist’s early years in the English capital. This period is considered one of the most accomplished of his career.

The work is presented in its magnificent period frame made of wood and stucco gilded with gold leaf, richly carved. An antique plaque bearing the artist’s name, as well as an antique exhibition label, attest to the interest in this work as early as the 19th century. Some slight wear on the gilding is currently visible; the frame will soon undergo professional restoration and will be delivered after work by our specialized workshop, with its presentation perfectly restored.

A high-quality painting that embodies all the characteristics sought after in Henry Campotosto’s work: an alluring subject, a face of exceptional elegance, remarkable craftsmanship, a clearly identifiable London period, and a superb period presentation.

Oil on panel, signed and dated London 1872.
Panel dimensions: 34 x 24 cm.
Dimensions with frame: 66 x 55 cm.