19" W x 15" H x 3" D
A late Victorian landscape dated 1888 that captures an ivy-clad Irish tower-house rising above green pasture with two tiny figures on the path for scale. The square keep with its boldly corbelled machicolations and the broken wall to the left align closely with Blarney Castle in County Cork, a favorite subject for 19th century artists and tourists. Painted in a moody palette of slate sky, olive greens and warm umbers, the work reads as a true cabinet picture made for a library or drawing room. The painting is oil on canvas laid to a wooden panel in the 19th century which keeps the surface flat and secure. It is presented in a deep period gilt frame with layered moldings and oak leaf, acorn and fruit ornament that gives strong architectural presence on the wall. Signed and dated at lower left in red L. S. C 1888. This is an elegant Irish School view that brings instant English country house character to a space and pairs beautifully with leather-bound books, brass and tartans.
Condition:
Good antique condition. Even age craquelure with localized traction crackle in the sky. Light surface grime consistent with age. Canvas laid to board long ago and stable. Varnish presents slightly matte. Period gilt composition frame with scattered small gesso losses and rubs, most visible on the top rail and outer corners. Later hanging wire. Ready to hang.
