Description
Gustave Léonard De Jonghe's painting In Front of the Chinese Cabinet is a stunning example of the 19th-century style of art known as Realism. The work is a portrait of two elegant women who meet in a luxurious room, in front of an exquisitely carved Chinese cabinet. The composition of the painting is very careful and balanced, with a strong emphasis on symmetry and harmony.
The coloring of the work is very rich and vibrant, with a palette of warm and earthy tones that give a feeling of warmth and comfort. The shadows and highlights are very well defined, creating a sense of depth and dimension in the painting.
The history of the painting is interesting, as it was commissioned by a Belgian art collector in the 1880s. De Jonghe was known for his portraits of elegant women and his ability to capture the fashion and fashion of the time. In front of the Chinese Cabinet was one of his most popular works, exhibited at several major art exhibitions in Europe.
A little-known aspect of the painting is that De Jonghe used the glacis technique to create the richness and depth of colour. This technique involves layering thin layers of clear paint to create a light, shimmering effect. The result is a painting that appears almost three-dimensional, with a sense of texture and detail that is impressive.
In short, In Front of the Chinese Cabinet is a masterpiece of 19th century Realism that combines technical skill with a keen sense of fashion and style. The composition, color and history of the painting are all interesting aspects that make this work a unique and fascinating piece of art.