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Imitator of Adolphe Monticelli, 'Conversation Piece', probably 1870-90

About the work

The specific subject of this picture has not been identified. Four figures that seem to be dressed in costumes of the era of Henry IV, around 1600, are shown busy in conversation.

Although the picture is signed at the bottom left corner and it is the type of painting favoured by Monticelli, its authenticity has been doubted on stylistic grounds. Not only are the forms more defined, but the colour palette is untypical of him.

Technical analysis by National Gallery conservators appears to confirm this observation. In fact, both the panel support of the painting and its technique, with the surface completely covered with paint, are not characteristic of Monticelli. Unsurprisingly, considering he was highly regarded by his contemporaries, his work was widely imitated. This picture was possibly painted by an artist following his style in the 1870s.

Key facts

Full title
Conversation Piece
Artist
Imitator of Adolphe Monticelli
Artist dates
1824 - 1886
Date made
probably 1870-90
Medium and support
oil on wood
Dimensions
33 × 25.4 cm
Inscription summary
Signed
Acquisition credit
Presented as part of the 'Harry Wearne Collection of Twelve Paintings by Monticelli' to the Tate Gallery, 1939; transferred, 1956
Inventory number
NG5017
Location
Not on display
Collection
Main Collection

About this record

If you know more about this painting or have spotted an error, please contact us. Please note that exhibition histories are listed from 2009 onwards. Bibliographies may not be complete; more comprehensive information is available in the National Gallery Library.

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