catalog text
EMIL VAN MARCKE (FRENCH, 1827-90)
HERDING IN THE COWS AND SHEEP
Signed lower left "Em van MarcK", canvas laid on panel
Item # 607NZT23
True to the generally optimistic nature of Marcke’s work, the present example is a bright and vibrant scene capturing the simple life of a peasant farmer in the countryside. Under clear sunny skies, the farmer brings his herd of sheep and cattle in from the fields at the end of the day. The well trod path doesn’t stop a few sheep from pausing to eat outgrowth while waiting for the other animals to catch up - rugged fencing outlines plots, clearly completed on a budget with sticks laying about the farm. Flat fields stretch well into the blurred distance where a stretch of forest is visible before the shaded hills. The high-chroma pallette is cheery and suggestive of spring.
Measurements: 17 1/4” H x 20 13/16” W x 2” D [framed]; 10 1/2” H x 16” W [stretchers]
Condition Report:
Professionally cleaned and in outstanding condition; light craquelure throughout surface, speck touch ups visible under UV light in sky, frame with minor abrasions/losses as expected.