Ahead of the upcoming Old Master, British & European Pictures sale, we had the pleasure of speaking with Head of Department Lara L’vov-Basirov. Lara’s previous working experience in this field stems from her years spent at Simon Dickinson and Christie’s. Despite a prevailing fondness for 15th and 16th-century Italian and Netherlandish painting, a newfound appreciation for the Dutch and Flemish 17th century has formed through her handling of many fine pictures from this category at Roseberys.
What was going on at the time?
In the 17th century, the Netherlands was split into two - the recently formed Dutch Republic (north) and Flanders (south). In spite of the 80 Years War (1568-1648), the northern Netherlands was enjoying economic prosperity at this time, principally due to the country’s prolific international trading, and advances in military and science. With this stability came an unprecedented flowering of the arts which made the so-called ‘Dutch Golden Age’ one of the most celebrated in the history of European art. Meanwhile in Flanders, which remained under the control of Catholic Spain, Antwerp was operating as the commercial and artistic centre, and was home to a number of highly skilled baroque painters.
Who were some of the key artists?
In the Northern Netherlands, artists including Rembrandt van Rijn, Johannes Vermeer, Frans Hals, Jan Steen, Adriaen van Ostade, and Aelbert Cuyp dominated the cultural scene. In Flanders, Peter Paul Rubens, Anthony van Dyck, Jan Brueghel the Elder, and David Teniers the Younger testify to the exceptional quality of painting in the region.
What examples from this period will be on offer at Roseberys?
This November, our top lot comprises a fantastic, large-scale oil on canvas by Flemish painter Paul de Vos. Characteristic of the artist’s subject matter, it is a really first-class example of his oeuvre. On offer too is a newly attributed oil on canvas by the highly accomplished and revered Dutch painted Gabriel Metsu. Entitled ‘The Drinker’, it betrays Metsu’s prodigious talents in capturing exquisite levels of detail. Be sure to also check out lots 37 and 38 by Adriaen van Ostade, the renowned Dutch painter of genre subjects, as well as lot 45, two magnificent copies of Genovese portraits by Van Dyck.
Lot 43: Gabriel Metsu, Dutch 1629-1667- The drinker
Do any of the pictures on offer have interesting or unusual provenance?
Yes - a stunning oil by Jan Dirksz. Both was owned by the seminal English actor and playwright David Garrick (1717-1779). If only pictures could talk, I'm sure there would be some stories there!
Lot 65: Jan Dirksz. Both, Dutch 1615-1652- A wooded landscape with travellers crossing a ford
Is it possible to pick up pictures from this category at the lower end of the price range?
Absolutely. In this month’s sale, we have an atmospheric landscape reminiscent of those by Peter Tillemans priced at £400-600 and a small oil on panel relating to the painted tronies of Govaert Flink at £800-1,200. Drawings are also a great place to start.
Lot 146: Follower of Peter Tillemans, Flemish 1684-1734- Stag hunt
I think I might have some Northern European pictures I’d like to sell. How do I know if they are valuable?
Contact Roseberys with images and details of anything you are considering selling. We are always happy to provide free valuations and friendly advice.
The auction will take place on Wednesday 16 November, at 11 am
Viewing Times at Roseberys:
Friday 11 November: 9.30 am - 5 pm
Sunday 13 November 10 am - 2 pm
Monday 14 November 9.30 am - 5 pm
Tuesday 15 November 9.30 am - 5 pm
Please contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.for condition reports and further information.
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