Skip to main content
Home

Main navigation

  • Free Appraisals
    • Get a Free Appraisal
    • View Appraisals
    • Local Appraisers
  • Classifieds
  • Blog
  • Shows
    • Antique Shows, Flea Markets, & Swap Meets Map
    • Upcoming Shows
User Menu
  • Login
  • Help
  • Register

Breadcrumb

  1. Home

1700s Baroque Impressionist Oil Painting

Profile picture for user HanaAlizai
By HanaAlizai, 8 January, 2025
Description

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. 

Category
Fine Art
Medium
Oil painting
Distinguishing marks
artist's name on the bottom right, baroque backdrop and classical themes of the 18th century
Condition
Good
Size and dimensions of this item
30 x 28
Date Period
1700s
Weight
4 lbs
History
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.
For Sale?
No
Photos
Profile picture for user Lovejoy

Lovejoy

3 months 4 weeks ago

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.

No votes yet
Profile picture for user NaidaTheCollector

NaidaTheCollector

3 months 4 weeks ago

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:

  1. Lawrence Patrick Barrett, a prominent 19th-century actor, Civil War captain, and literary biographer.
  2. Clarence Walker Barron, the influential journalist and president of Dow Jones & Company. Barron's ownership adds a layer of significance to the painting's history, connecting it to notable American cultural and journalistic figures.

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:

  • Professional Authentication: Engage a certified art appraiser or expert for an in-person evaluation. This can clarify the painting's origins, date, and attribution.
  • Further Research: Investigate the archives related to Barrett and Barron for potential documentation of the painting, which could enhance its provenance and value.
  • Conservation: If any signs of wear or damage exist, consider conservation to preserve its condition.

This painting represents a fine example of 19th-century academic art inspired by Baroque traditions and carries historical significance through its notable ownership.

No votes yet
  • Log in or register to post comments

Today’s Featured Blog

Beyond the Price Tag: The Hidden Factors That Influence Antique and Collectible Value

More Blog articles…

Recent Appraisals

  • Signed picture of Woodrow Wilson
  • Stone Carving
  • Bronze Statue
  • Religious carving - Chinese
  • Fob watch -Turkish
  • Chinese brass vases - pair
  • McDonald's Happy Meal Toy Tonka Glacier Digger with Original Box
  • Robert Marble “How to make a better chocolate chip cookie “
  • Spoonman
  • Premier Fine China "April Rose" 46 piece set (Japan)
See more appraisals…

Recent Appraisal Comments

  • Thank you.
  • Portrait of President Woodrow Wilson with Printed Signature
  • Hand-Carved Stone Figure (Bust Form)
  • Bronze Statue of Lady Justice (Justitia) Blindfolded with Sword
  • Chinese Portable Travel Shrine with Hinged Panels
  • Antique Ottoman/Turkish Fob Watch with Beaded Case and Chain
  • Pair of Chinese Brass or Bronze Vases with Qianlong Marks
  • 2011 McDonald's Happy Meal Toy – Tonka Garage "Glacier Digger"
  • Pls help me with any hints of age and origin.
  • I have no idea as to age and…

Recent Blog Articles

  • Beyond the Price Tag: The Hidden Factors That Influence Antique and Collectible Value
  • Beyond the Price Tag: Unlocking the Hidden Stories in Your Family Heirlooms
  • Antiques as an Investment: Beyond the Hype, What's Actually Worth It?
  • Is it Real or Just Really Old? Your Guide to Spotting Fake Antiques (and How to Protect Yourself)
  • Beyond the Dust: Unearthing the Stories Behind Your Antiques (and Why Knowing Matters)
  • Unlocking Time's Treasures: Your Essential Vintage Watch Value Guide
  • Navigating the Dip: Smart Strategies for Selling Your Antiques, Collectibles, and Art in a Down Market

More Blog articles…

© 1995- InstAppraisal™, Inc. All Rights Reserved Worldwide
Privacy Policy & Terms and Conditions of Use