École européenne (c.1860) - Saint Jean-Baptiste
08
days
15
hours
48
minutes
17
seconds
Starting bid
€ 1
Reserve price not met
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Selected by Caroline Bokobza
Graduated as French auctioneer and worked in Sotheby’s Paris valuation department.
Estimate € 600 - € 800
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Saint Jean-Baptiste, an European school watercolor from around 1860 from France, sold with frame.
AI-assisted summary
Description from the seller
European school, probably French, 1860
San Juan Bautista
Watercolor
Watercolor dimensions: 33 x 23 cm
Frame dimensions: 55 x 65 cm
Important watercolor of the European school, probably French, dated 1860, depicting Saint John the Baptist. The work seems to include an ancient inscription in which Paris, France could be read, a detail that, if confirmed through direct study, would reinforce its documentary and contextual interest.
The composition presents the saint young, half-length, in a contemplative and devotional attitude, with his gaze raised to the sky and his hand open, in a disposition of great spiritual intensity. Saint John the Baptist is depicted with attire in biblical tradition, partially covered by skin and a reddish mantle, set against a sober landscape of hills and open horizon.
The work stands out for its high technical quality, especially visible in the treatment of the face, the anatomy, the flesh tones, and the drapery folds of the mantle. The drawing is fine and precise, with a clear academic sensibility typical of European 19th-century painting. The saint’s expression, of great delicacy, conveys contemplation, faith, and spiritual elevation.
From a stylistic point of view, the watercolor sits within the European religious academic tradition of the 19th century, with probable French ties. The figure is resolved with a balanced composition, careful drawing, and a palette of soft tones, highlighting reds, ochres, greens, and warm flesh tones. The result is an image of notable refinement, clearly intended for a devotional and artistic reading.
The iconography of Saint John the Baptist is recognized by its youthful appearance, austere clothing, open landscape, and the attitude of proclamation or contemplation. The work shows clear religious, historical, and collector interest, and for its quality, date, and apparent inscription, it can be considered a piece worthy of study.
The watercolor measures approximately 33 x 23 cm. With the frame, the piece measures approximately 55 x 65 cm.
The condition can be assessed in the photographs, which are part of the description. It is recommended to carefully review the images to assess the overall condition of the watercolor, the paper, the passe-partout, and the frame.
Presented framed with an antique gold frame of strong ornamental presence. The frame is in poor condition, with visible defects, losses, and significant signs of aging, and is therefore sent as a gift along with the artwork, without the frame’s condition constituting a ground for complaint.
Piece of great artistic and devotional interest, especially attractive to collectors of religious art, antique watercolor, 19th-century French school, and representations of Saint John the Baptist.
SHIPPING TO COUNTRIES REQUIRING CUSTOMS MAY INCUR SURCHARGES.
Seller's Story
At ARTEMISA, we are passionately and professionally dedicated to the daily selection and auction of works of art, antiques and collectibles. Our experience in the sector allows us to offer unique and authentic pieces, carefully acquired from private collections and exclusive sources.
We have a wide stock covering a wide variety of styles and periods, designed to satisfy both experienced collectors and those looking to get started in the world of art.
Every piece tells a story and every auction is an opportunity to discover something special. Our goal is to connect art lovers with objects that inspire and enrich their collections.
Translated by Google TranslateEuropean school, probably French, 1860
San Juan Bautista
Watercolor
Watercolor dimensions: 33 x 23 cm
Frame dimensions: 55 x 65 cm
Important watercolor of the European school, probably French, dated 1860, depicting Saint John the Baptist. The work seems to include an ancient inscription in which Paris, France could be read, a detail that, if confirmed through direct study, would reinforce its documentary and contextual interest.
The composition presents the saint young, half-length, in a contemplative and devotional attitude, with his gaze raised to the sky and his hand open, in a disposition of great spiritual intensity. Saint John the Baptist is depicted with attire in biblical tradition, partially covered by skin and a reddish mantle, set against a sober landscape of hills and open horizon.
The work stands out for its high technical quality, especially visible in the treatment of the face, the anatomy, the flesh tones, and the drapery folds of the mantle. The drawing is fine and precise, with a clear academic sensibility typical of European 19th-century painting. The saint’s expression, of great delicacy, conveys contemplation, faith, and spiritual elevation.
From a stylistic point of view, the watercolor sits within the European religious academic tradition of the 19th century, with probable French ties. The figure is resolved with a balanced composition, careful drawing, and a palette of soft tones, highlighting reds, ochres, greens, and warm flesh tones. The result is an image of notable refinement, clearly intended for a devotional and artistic reading.
The iconography of Saint John the Baptist is recognized by its youthful appearance, austere clothing, open landscape, and the attitude of proclamation or contemplation. The work shows clear religious, historical, and collector interest, and for its quality, date, and apparent inscription, it can be considered a piece worthy of study.
The watercolor measures approximately 33 x 23 cm. With the frame, the piece measures approximately 55 x 65 cm.
The condition can be assessed in the photographs, which are part of the description. It is recommended to carefully review the images to assess the overall condition of the watercolor, the paper, the passe-partout, and the frame.
Presented framed with an antique gold frame of strong ornamental presence. The frame is in poor condition, with visible defects, losses, and significant signs of aging, and is therefore sent as a gift along with the artwork, without the frame’s condition constituting a ground for complaint.
Piece of great artistic and devotional interest, especially attractive to collectors of religious art, antique watercolor, 19th-century French school, and representations of Saint John the Baptist.
SHIPPING TO COUNTRIES REQUIRING CUSTOMS MAY INCUR SURCHARGES.
Seller's Story
At ARTEMISA, we are passionately and professionally dedicated to the daily selection and auction of works of art, antiques and collectibles. Our experience in the sector allows us to offer unique and authentic pieces, carefully acquired from private collections and exclusive sources.
We have a wide stock covering a wide variety of styles and periods, designed to satisfy both experienced collectors and those looking to get started in the world of art.
Every piece tells a story and every auction is an opportunity to discover something special. Our goal is to connect art lovers with objects that inspire and enrich their collections.
Translated by Google TranslateDetails
Artist
École européenne (c.1860)
Sold with frame
Yes
Title of artwork
Saint Jean-Baptiste
Technique
Watercolour painting
Signature
Signed
Country of origin
France
Condition
Good condition
Height
65 cm
Width
55 cm
Depiction/theme
Religion
Period
19th century
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