Artwork
Portrait of hunter tied to tree
Portrait of hunter tied to tree is an oil painting by the Rococo painting artist Francis Sartorius. It dates from 1760 and is held in the collection of the National Library of Wales.
About this work
Overview
Portrait of hunter tied to tree is a 1760 oil painting by English artist Francis Sartorius, primarily known for his horse and hunting themes. Despite its title, the work focuses on horses in a serene natural setting.
Subject & Meaning
The painting depicts two horses, one prominently in the foreground with saddle and bridle, and another lighter-colored horse visible behind a fence. The scene conveys a sense of calm and tranquility, set against a cloudy sky.
Technique & Style
Executed in oil, the painting utilizes earthy tones to enhance its peaceful atmosphere, characteristic of the Rococo movement's emphasis on lightness and serenity in depiction.
History & Provenance
Created in 1760, the painting is part of the National Library of Wales' collection. Francis Sartorius was part of a family of artists, notably preceding his grandson, Francis Sartorius Jr.
Context
While Sartorius is known for hunting scenes, this work prioritizes the horses, reflecting the Rococo period's occasional focus on pastoral and calm subjects within the broader genre of portraiture and animal painting.
Artist & collection
Artist
Francis Sartorius (1734 – 5 March 1804) was an English painter of horses, horse-racing and hunting scenes, of the celebrated Sartorius family of artists.
