Antique French oil painting of a romantic courting scene by Frederic Soulacroix

Antique French oil painting of a romantic courting scene by Frederic Soulacroix
France, Late 19th Century
Canvas: Height 52cm, width 29cm
Frame: Height 67cm, width 44.5cm, depth 5cm
 
This graceful oil painting by Frederic Soulacroix (1858–1933) captures the refined elegance for which the artist is internationally admired. Trained in Florence, where he developed a distinctive style inspired by 18th-century courtly aesthetics, Soulacroix became known for his beautifully costumed figures, polished surfaces, and scenes filled with gentle romantic narrative.
 
In this charming courting scene, a young woman in a radiant pink dress sits beside a riverside bench while her suitor leans toward her in affectionate conversation. The gown, rendered with rich highlights and soft tonal transitions, immediately draws the viewer’s eye and anchors the composition. Soulacroix sets the couple within a lush landscape of trees and shimmering water, allowing filtered light to enhance the tender mood of the encounter. His careful handling of facial expressions, posture, and costume creates an engaging sense of intimacy, while the discarded hat, flowing ribbons, and rustic bench provide naturalistic details that complete the story.
 
The painting is framed in an ornate giltwood surround with an artist’s plaque, and the reverse bears exhibition labels referencing the National Association of Artists in Florence.
Refined, romantic, and executed with great technical control, this painting is an excellent example of Soulacroix’s celebrated genre scenes and a distinguished addition to any collection of 19th-century European art.
 
Provenance: Sold at Christie’s New York, 1 May 2000 (Lot 109) for $32,900
 
Artist/Maker: Frederic Soulacroix