Émile Friant - The Familiar Birds [1921] by Gandalf Via Flickr: French Naturalist painter Émile Friant (18633 - 1932) presents a breathtakingly beautiful nude in this portrait. The artist’s technical precision and observational prowess made his work some of the most desirable works of the early 20th century. In 1885, he received a travel scholarship which allowed him to visit the Netherlands, Italy, Malta, and Tunisia. It was during this trip that Friant became influenced by the technique of the great Dutch Masters, as evidenced by the current offering. Their concentration upon everyday subjects and treatment of light and perspective are clearly demonstrated in this portrait. Despite the obvious qualities that would assumedly draw attention, it is the subject’s warm smile and bright eyes that truly captivate the viewer’s focus.
[M.S.Rau Antiques, New Orleans - Oil on canvas, 163.8 x 119.4 cm]