Green Knightly Seal On The Back [gouache Depicting A Break In Falcon Hunting, Circa 1760–1770]

Country: Presumably France

Artist: In the style of Hubert Robert
Period: I would say around 1760–1770


Subject: Appears to depict hunters resting in ruins  (falconry? ) The figures on the left represent the owners and patrons of this superb gouache (see the seal, a coat-of-arms likely belonging to the knighthood and possibly to one of the Hundred Knights of the Order of the Holy - Esprit)—note the white horse with a blue ribbon on its headstall and the blue stirrups. The hunt followed strict codes that the painter seemed to know well. * The key to its provenance lies in this green coat of arms (see photo)
** The green wax seal was reserved for the French high aristocracy...

Dimensions: approximately 40 cm x 50 cm for the gouache
Original period Louis XVI frame with pearl decoration on carved gilded wood. 

*** I am not an expert in drawing, but this gouache was created by a skilled hand close to the Kings of France. It is well-structured; its architectural background is soft, light, and airy, and the figures all have distinct faces, which lend the work its atmosphere. 

**** The condition is pristine—not a single stain on the laid paper.

***** Never before offered at public auction; comes directly from a private collection. 

On view at 'Sablon Antiques Center,' 39 Place du Grand Sablon, 1000 Brussels