18th-Century Swedish School, Hercules Slaying The Dragon Ladon

18th-Century Swedish School, Hercules Slaying The Dragon LadonThis mid 18th century Swedish oil painting depicts the ancient Greek hero, Hercules, slaying the serpentine dragon Ladon in the Garden of the Hesperides. Its a remarkable piece and initially rather tricky to decipher due to its dark qualities. On the right, theres cattle including a particularly vicious looking bull. While on the left, we see a muscular figure grappling with a demonic dragon, which appears to be wrapped around a desolate tree. It

"Such a beautiful piece

Hardman entered the stained glass industry following the advice of leading gothic-revival architect Augustus Welby Northmore Pugin (1812-1852)

1860Provenance: HollandCondition: Areas of light craquelure but otherwise fine

as seen here in this portrait of “Miss Burrell”

But we’re unable to ascertain the creator of this splendid piece as the signature is challenging to decipher

relieved to be away from the rigours of high society

Overall size: 18½” x 22½” / 47cm x 57cm

It appears the closest gentleman is working on a ladies' shoe

472 achieved for ‘Franskt Vinterlandskap’ in 2003

It’s a little reminiscent of the ethereal quality of old master drawings

18” x 24⅓” / 46cm x 62cm

This charming mid-19th-century portrait depicts John Wright Sharman (1839-1885) and Fanny Shadlow Sharman (1843-1911) with the family dog