Thomas Barker of Bath

A Small Old Painting Called Rocky Path With Figures

Early 1800s

This painting depicts a pastoral scene that is attributed to the artist Jan Frans Soolmaker, an artist known for his Italianate landscapes and scenes that often feature equestrian and Arcadian elements. The painting is not signed but is attributed to Soolmaker, relating it to a known signed work by the artist that was sold at Sotheby’s London in 1999. The scene is suffused with the warm glow of a setting or rising sun, casting a soft light that is characteristic of Soolmaker’s landscapes. It shows a shepherd guiding a group of cattle across a shallow stream, with the animals taking center stage in the composition. The animals are rendered with careful attention to their forms and the play of light on their bodies, which is a hallmark of Soolmaker's work. The landscape is composed of a rocky terrain with trees and shrubbery, creating a sense of depth and natural beauty that invites the viewer to explore the scene further. The background suggests a vast, open landscape with distant mountains, which adds to the Italianate feel of the painting. The sky is dramatic, with clouds catching the light of the sun, contributing to the overall serene yet dynamic atmosphere of the work. The provenance of the painting is notable, having been in the possession of significant historical figures such as Swedish Prince Fredrik Adolf, and later The collection of Pär Ulmgren, The collection of Gösta Stenman, and Engineer and politician Gustaf Henry Hansson. Potential buyers have the option of choosing between a newly made gold frame or an older brown frame, which allows for personalization in how the work is presented. Soolmaker’s work is often compared to that of Dutch painter Nicolaes Berchem, whose style he emulated. Soolmaker's landscapes reflect a similar sensitivity to light and composition, making his works sought after for their beauty and historical significance. Despite the smaller body of work left by Soolmaker, due to his short career, his paintings are valued for their craftsmanship and the legacy of the artist’s brief but impactful contribution to the Dutch Italianate landscape genre. Information: Jan Frans Soolmaker (Flanders 1635‑1685) Shepherd with Sheep...

Jan Frans Soolmaker (Flanders 1635‑1685) Shepherd with Sheep, Cows and a Goat in a Landscape oil on relined canvas canvas size 56 x 53 cm frame i...

Flemish School, 1600s Landscape With Pan and Syrinx painted around the 1600s oil on copper 19 x 23.5 cm frame 29 x 34 cm Hand-made oak frame by Swedish frame maker Christer Björkma...

This serene landscape painting is by James Howe Carse, a Scottish-Australian artist whose lineage and mentorship are deeply rooted in the artistic traditions of his time. Carse's wor...

This charming French Old Master oil painting is by noted French artist Philippe Budelot. Painted circa 1800 the composition is of figures on a woodland path by a lake. In the foreground is a drover on horseback with some cattle and a goat. They are being greeted by the sheep dog of the shepherdess behind them who has sheep scattered amongst the trees. More figures are coming along the path in the distance. The group in the foreground are well illuminated beneath the blue sky above and it is probably early morning. The brushwork on the trees is superb and the whole scene is quite charming. This is an excellent example of a French Old Master landscape...

This lovely painting is a British Old Master late 18th century or early 19th-century oil painting by Thomas Barker of Bath. It is stylistically very similar to his other works of the...

Edward Williams British, (1781-1855) The Old Abbey Ruins Oil on canvas Image size: 22.25 inches x 30.75 inches Size including frame: 28.25 inches x 36.75 in...

Antique 19th century French framed oil on canvas painting, "Medieval Road Outside a Village."