Artwork
A Riding Lesson
A Riding Lesson is an oil painting by the Rococo painting artist Franz de Paula Ferg. It is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.
About this work
Overview
A Riding Lesson is an oil painting by Franz de Paula Ferg, an artist known for his landscapes and staffage figures. The work depicts a serene scene of equestrian instruction.
Subject & Meaning
The painting shows a woman, dressed in elaborate attire and a large hat, being assisted by a man as she mounts or rides a horse. The calm atmosphere suggests a quiet, instructional moment.
Technique & Style
Ferg's style in A Riding Lesson blends influences from Dutch, Flemish, and Italian artistic traditions. The painting is characterized by a relatively dark color palette, typical of Ferg's work.
History & Provenance
Originally attributed to Carel van Falens, A Riding Lesson is now recognized as the work of Franz de Paula Ferg. The painting has a pendant piece, and both were likely created during Ferg's time in London, where he settled in 1724.
Artist & collection
Artist
Franz de Paula Ferg (2 May 1689 – 1740), also known as Francis Paul Ferg, was an Austrian painter, draughtsman, and printmaker. He painted primarily scenes of daily life, such as people interacting in markets and villages.
