Bidspirit auction | A JEAN-BAPTISTE CLAUDOT DE NANCY

A JEAN-BAPTISTE CLAUDOT DE NANCY (FRENCH, 1733–1805) OIL ON CANVAS LANDSCAPE PAINTING - A refined and atmospheric pastoral landscape depicting an animated riverside scene at sunset. In the foreground, a group of elegant figures rests by a rocky bank while one of them displays a fishing net; nearby, a man launches a flat-bottomed boat into the calm waters. Beyond, cattle graze before a distant village and church spire set against the soft glow of an evening sky. The painting beautifully demonstrates Jean-Baptiste Claudot de Nancy’s mastery of lyrical composition, fusing elements of classical landscape tradition and 18th-century French naturalism. His subtle handling of light and atmospheric depth, particularly in the distant hills and reflective water, recalls the influence of Claude Lorrain and Joseph Vernet, while maintaining the more intimate and decorative character of the Lorraine school. This work formed part of a pair of pendant landscapes, a format Claudot frequently employed for aristocratic interiors and salon decoration. Comparative Example: A closely related composition by Jean-Baptiste Claudot de Nancy, A River Landscape with Drovers at Dusk and Figures Resting by a River (oil on canvas, 59.2 × 121.2 cm), was sold at Bonhams, London, “Old Master Paintings, ” 8 December 2021, Lot 2. Footnote: Jean-Baptiste Claudot, known as Claudot de Nancy, trained in Nancy and Paris under Joseph Vernet and became one of the leading painters of the Lorraine school. He specialized in idealized rustic landscapes with genre figures and subtle architectural elements, blending the pastoral charm of French Rococo with the precision of early Neoclassicism. Works by Claudot are preserved in the Musée des Beaux-Arts de Nancy and the Musée Lorrain, among others. Please make all inquiries before bidding. All lots are sold ”as-is”, refer to our T&C. Helios Auctions offers in-house shipping. In case we can not accommodate a shipping request, a list of additional shippers will be provided. Please note that this lot is located in Europe and will be shipped to the winner from our European warehouse. Dimensions: 28 x 38 5/8 in., (71.2 x 93 cm.) Condition: Good overall condition. The canvas appears unlined, on its original stretcher, with stable paint surface and natural craquelure consistent with age. The varnish is slightly yellowed and would benefit from professional cleaning to enhance tonal balance and clarity. No visible signs of restoration or overpainting. The period giltwood frame shows light wear. The painting should be cleaned to bring up the vibrant palette.