Follower Of Jacques-antoine Vallin - Portrait Of A Bacchante - 19th Century

Lovely 19th century period painting, representing a Bacchante wearing a crown of vine leaves. In the 19th century, the ancient world stimulated the imagination of the artists of the Academy of Fine Arts. The Roman god of wine and festivities "Bacchus" is carried in triumph by a society in metamorphosis, which devotes a cult to material joys, to the benefits of drink and sensual ecstasy. The Bacchantes who accompany her take part in the mysteries and festivals given in her honour. Their representation continues to appear during this century and remains a formidable pretext for exploring the liberated and unveiled female nude. The myth, thus depoetized, only serves to discreetly veil the daydreams of a public in search of carnal subjects. Our painting radiates spontaneity, charm, truth and the expression of our Bacchante testifies to the artist's ability to observe, feel and capture a barely concealed sensuality. Parted lips, a head tilted on the shoulder, a languorous gaze, all these signs of love prove it. The use of this gallant mythology is ultimately only a subterfuge to highlight the dangerous game in which our maenad indulges. Her attitude, her gaze, her chest, remind us that despite her candor, she seeks the eyes of love. Technically, the artist applied himself here to creating transparent shadows which translate a truth of flesh and an infinite softness. This remarkable work, combining precision and speed, makes our painting a finished work. Our painting dates from the 19th century and its style evokes the creations of Jacques-Antoine Vallin. It is presented in a superb stucco frame of the Barbizon type, having preserved a very beautiful original gilding. Oil on canvas (46 cm x 38 cm) and its frame (70 cm x 62 cm). Literature Jacques-Antoine Vallin is the son of a Parisian sculptor-engraver, based on the Quai de la Mégisserie. At the age of fifteen, he entered the Royal Academy in 1779 under the protection of the history painter Gabriel Doyen, then of Callet in 1786. He returned to Drevet's studio three years later. He was also a pupil of Antoine Renou there. Vallin did not begin at the Salon until 1791, first exhibiting two canvases, La Tempête and Petit paysage. The influence of Vernet but also that of Bidauld still mark a painting of 1793 like The Shepherdess of the Alps preserved in the museum of Algiers. Very quickly, he then found his way and success with his paintings of nymphs and bacchantes placed in harmonious landscapes often bathed in a fine golden light. Vallin also draws his inspiration from ancient history or mythology. His last appearance at the Salon dates back to 1827. About Valtesse Gallery ● Our paintings are carefully selected according to their quality, their age and their good condition. ● We only offer old period paintings for sale. ● You want to decorate your home or make an investment, we will be happy to answer your questions! ● We deliver our paintings all over the world and we take care to carry out very secure packaging. ● Our paintings are not all listed on Proantic, so to see our entire catalog, you can consult our website: www.galerievaltesse.com ● We offer the possibility of payment in installments free of charge. Do not hesitate to contact us for more information. ● In addition to our own expertise, several of our works of art are authenticated by a famous firm of experts in old paintings located in Paris.