Large antique German oil painting of a canary seller by F. Schröder

Large antique German oil painting of a canary seller by F. Schröder
German, c. 1900
Canvas: Height 80cm, width 109cm
Frame: Height 115cm, width 143cm, depth 13cm
 
This exceptional oil on canvas, titled The Canary Seller, was painted by German artist Albert Friedrich Schröder (1854–1939). Schröder was renowned for his genre paintings, often depicting everyday life and dynamic social scenes with meticulous detail and narrative depth.
 
In this vibrant composition, Schröder portrays a bustling scene, likely set in a tavern, where various figures engage in conversation and activity. The focal point is the canary seller, whose confident posture suggests he is either entertaining or negotiating with the surrounding patrons. His faithful dog sits loyally between his legs, its gaze directed toward the birdcages in the background. A few figures stand behind him, while a potential buyer in the foreground seems lost in thought. The painting beautifully captures a moment of community and interaction, emblematic of genre scenes that delve into human behaviour and social dynamics. The figures are dressed in traditional German attire, with rich, dark tones dominating the colour palette. In the background, tables are occupied by other customers, while an intrigued man on the right side observes the unfolding scene.
 
Schröder expertly uses light and colour to draw attention to the central figures, enhancing the narrative and guiding the viewer’s eye through the composition.
 
The painting is housed in an intricately carved giltwood frame, adorned with a plaque that reads, ‘The Canary Seller / Albert Friedrich Schröder / 1854-1939’. The canvas is signed 'F. Schröder' in the lower left corner.
 
This fine artwork would make a stunning addition to one’s collection of European art.
 
Artist/Maker: Albert Friedrich Schröder