A Set of Three Grisaille Paintings on Leather Depicting Theatrical Figures.
French, early 18th century
Executed in grisaille on prepared leather, this set of three paintings depicts vividly characterised figures drawn from the theatrical world, possibly stock characters from the Commedia dell’arte tradition. Each is rendered with heightened expression and animated gesture: one figure sings from an open songbook, another brandishes a jester’s staff, and the third plays the bagpipes. Their exaggerated physiognomies and lively poses underscore their association with popular performance and comic theatre.
The works are painted in a restricted palette of greys heightened with white, producing a sculptural effect akin to relief. This technique, combined with the unusual choice of leather as a support, suggests they originally formed part of a larger decorative scheme—perhaps panels from a room, or elements of a folding screen designed to enliven a domestic or theatrical interior.
Now mounted in modern black and gilt frames, the panels retain much of their period character despite surface wear and signs of age.
Measurements
38.5 × 28 cm; 40 × 31 cm; and 39.5 × 29 cm (including frames).
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