This oil painting depicts three men in elaborate 18th-century attire gathered around a chessboard in what appears to be a richly decorated interior, likely evoking themes of intellectual engagement or leisure among the aristocracy. The luxurious clothing, ornate furniture, and classical backdrop suggest a Rococo or late-Baroque style. There are what appear to be nymphs in the background, suggesting maybe that this is a brothel that aristocrats frequent.
Purchased and owned by several notable individuals over 150 years in the Oaks estate in Cohasset, Massachusetts which was just sold in 2024. One such early owner was 19th-century actor Lawrence Patrick Barret. A true man of his time, Barret was an actor, civil war captain, and author of several biographical sketches–including one of his acquaintance Edwin Booth, whom he wrote about in Edwin Booth and his Contemporaries. The painting was also owned by journalist, author and president of Dow Jones & Company, Clarence Walker Barron, according to the brokerage. (Dow Jones is Mansion Global’s parent company.) An important and astute media man, Barron was also a skilled journalist, who in 1920 famously investigated the financial fraud that would ultimately land Charles Ponzi in prison.
It could possibly be the work of a 19th century painter who romanticized or nostalgically depicted scenes of 18th-century aristocratic life. Artists such as Jean-Louis-Ernest Meissonier or a lesser-known academic painter could have created a piece like this, as they were known for similar compositions. There is a signature at the bottom right corner and the name looks like "Roel A. Renee" but no such artist exists or at least if he does, doesn't seem well known.
I would appreciate insights into this work, relating to the artist and details that I may have overlooked which are useful to determining the value of this work and the time period it was likely created.
Paintings generally require…
Paintings generally require the services of a professional fine arts Appraiser that will physically examine the piece. And therefore really are not good candidates for any form of online appraisal format. I suggest contacting a local auctioneer for a referral to one in your area.
1700s Baroque-Style Oil Painting
Description:
This painting appears to be a finely executed oil painting depicting three men in elaborate 18th-century attire engaged in a game of chess. The setting, characterized by rich furniture, ornate architectural elements, and a backdrop featuring lounging nymphs, reflects themes of intellectual aristocratic leisure. The detailed brushwork, opulent colors, and composition evoke styles of Baroque and Rococo art, albeit the painting may be a later 19th-century reinterpretation of such themes.
Artist and Signature:
The bottom-right corner displays a signature, interpreted as "Roel A. Renee." This name does not match any widely recognized or documented artist, suggesting that this may be the work of a lesser-known academic painter or a pseudonym. The signature style and its placement are consistent with works from the 19th century.
Provenance and Historical Significance:
The painting has a distinguished provenance tied to the Oaks estate in Cohasset, Massachusetts. Key past owners include:
Condition:
The painting is in good condition, with some expected wear consistent with age. The gilded frame, likely original to the piece or of the same period, enhances its presentation and value. Minimal visible damage or deterioration is noted in the photographs, but an in-person evaluation would confirm its condition.
Art Style and Attribution:
While the painting reflects Baroque or Rococo themes, the work is likely a 19th-century homage or romanticized depiction of 18th-century aristocratic life. This stylistic choice was popular among academic painters of the time. The precise identity of the artist remains uncertain, as "Roel A. Renee" does not correlate with widely cataloged artists. If authentic, the painting could still appeal to collectors of historic interiors or genre scenes.
Value:
Given the quality, subject matter, provenance, and condition, the painting's value could range between $5,000 to $12,000 at auction, depending on demand for historic-themed artworks and its market appeal. However, the lack of a recognized artist reduces its upper market potential. Should further research attribute the painting to a known artist, the value could increase significantly.
Recommendations:
This painting represents a fine example of 19th-century academic art inspired by Baroque traditions and carries historical significance through its notable ownership.