Henry Charles Bryant

19th Century Oil Painting of a Market Scene by H. C. Bryant

1877

Very Large Oil Painting English Chichester Cross Market Scene Henry Charles Bryant English, Late 19th Century Canvas: Height 88cm, width 128cm Frame: Height 104cm, width 144cm, depth 7cm This stunning oil painting is by Henry Charles Bryant, a renowned English artist celebrated for his vivid portrayals of rural markets and farmyard life. Active mainly in London during the latter half of the 19th century, Bryant frequently exhibited at prestigious institutions such as the Royal Academy, the British Institution, and the Royal Society of British Artists. The artwork captures a lively market day set near the iconic Chichester Cross, a notable example of Gothic architecture in the historic city of Chichester. The canvas teems with activity, as Bryant skilfully depicts a variety of figures - vendors, buyers, and onlookers - all immersed in their daily routines. A rich array of fresh produce fills the scene, with baskets overflowing with fruits, vegetables, and vibrant floral bouquets. Chickens are contained within wicker and metal cages, where a spirited negotiation unfolds amid an attentive crowd. Central to the composition, a striking pair of peacocks flaunts their shimmering green feathers, drawing admiration from market visitors. Nearby, a young woman’s delicate arrangement of flowers adds both grace and vitality to the scene. Bryant’s expert handling of colour brings focus to the foreground, especially highlighting the white ducks and the intricate textures of the animals and goods. His use of a rich and varied palette, combined with meticulous attention to detail, creates an almost trompe-l’oeil effect that invites viewers to step into the bustling marketplace. In the background, the Gothic splendour of the Chichester Cross stands prominently, with its arches revealing glimpses of the town beyond. A row of buildings to the left further conveys the sense of a thriving market hub, while patches of leafy greenery and trees contrast beautifully with the overcast sky. Encased in an ornate giltwood frame featuring a title plaque inscribed ‘Henry C. Bryant / 1812–1881 / Chichester Cross’, the painting is signed in the lower left corner by the artist. A retailer’s label is affixed to the reverse. Full of life and detail, this remarkable market scene exemplifies Bryant’s artistic skill and charm, making it a prized acquisition for collectors of 19th century British art.

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