Saturday 7 February 2015

Popular Flowers from Brussels


At Baratoux, on 11 February 2015, they are selling a Dutch still life of flowers, ca. 1820, signed FUB (more likely FVB). Estimated at 1,500 to 2,000 Euro, I considered it a rather striking composition, with the blue flowers and the birds' nest. Turns out it is a copy (one of many) of a composition by Paul Theodor van Brussel, from the late 18th century.
The above better copy was sold at Bukowski's for some 4,100 Euro. A similar one below at Sotheby's failed to sell for $60,000 to $80,000 though. A huge price difference, but this version was significantly superior once one starts to look at the detailing. The one for sale now is rather mediocre, with an estimate that reflects this. But at least now I know who made the very good composition.


No comments:

Post a Comment