Francesco Ballesio, The Music Master

Francesco Ballesio, The Music MasterThis exquisite late 19th century oil painting by Italian artist Francesco Ballesio (1860 1923) depicts an 18th century music lesson within a grand setting. Surrounded by the various decorative embellishments of a plush Italian interior, a bewigged virtuoso demonstrates his craft. The air enlivened by the enchanting sound of a gilded harpsichord. To his left, a sumptuous folio of sheet music rests on a chair. The ladies are set for quite a performance.

The label dates to a short period between 1812-1821

Overall size: 29” x 23” / 74cm x 59cm

Light craquelure in areas and one blemish towards the bottom which could be varnish bloom

The engraving is housed within a later glazed frame

of the 15th-century painter Hans Memling

This late 18th-century oil painting by British artist W Walker depicts a Dutch landscape with cattle and castle ruins

A gentle breeze catches the tall leaning reeds

He had a skill for romanticising everyday fleeting moments that would otherwise pass us by

It’s fascinating for the inclusion of the bathers

clutching a large pail

He’s a man in control of his destiny

There’s energy - she could turn at any moment