Rich Figure Staffage with Horses and Dogs before a Roman For...

Ref: 2659

Rich Figure Staffage with Horses and Dogs before a Roman Forge

Jean-Louis Demarne

Ref: 2659

Rich Figure Staffage with Horses and Dogs before a Roman Forge

Jean-Louis Demarne

Oil on wood
32.2 x 39.5 cm (12⁵/₈ x 15¹/₂ inches)
Description: Attributed to: Jean-Louis Demarne (Brussels 1752–1829)
Oil on walnut panel
Golden frame
Old auction label on the reverse
In this Roman street scene, a variety of scenes are taking place in front of a blacksmith's shop. On the left, a group of children are playing with a dog, while behind them a sales conversation between a blacksmith and a married couple seems to be taking place. To their right, a new horseshoe is being nailed to the hind leg of a horse. The blacksmith's employees are being watched by a Roman soldier who is meticulously observing their work.
This scene of everyday life shows the bustling life of the Roman metropolis in a compact and multi-figured way. The painter understood how to capture the momentum of the individual scenes and create an evening light atmosphere that skilfully reflects the warmth of the south.