"Happy Moments" Oil by E.J. Cobbett | British Genre Scene | 19th Century
Description
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Historical Context & Origin
Artist: Edward John Cobbett, R.B.A. (1815–1899)
Title: Happy Moments
Region: England
Period: Circa 1860–1880
Medium: Oil on canvas
Description
This exceptional Victorian oil painting by Edward John Cobbett, R.B.A., titled “Happy Moments,” captures the idyllic tranquility of 19th-century rural life. Cobbett, renowned for his sentimental depictions of family and countryside subjects, brings warmth and intimacy to this composition. The work portrays a mother holding her child, accompanied by two additional figures, set against a serene coastal backdrop. Cobbett’s mastery of detail and tone is evident in the soft rendering of faces, the rich earthy palette, and the carefully balanced natural scenery. Signed in the lower right corner: E.J. Cobbett R.B.A.
Features
- Charming rural scene with mother and child, and accompanying figures
- Serene coastal landscape with finely rendered detail
- Warm Victorian palette emphasizing natural light and harmony
- Signed by the artist, lower right: E.J. Cobbett R.B.A.
Construction Details
- Original oil on canvas
- Ornate, period gilt gesso frame with foliate scrollwork and shell motifs
- Stretcher stamped Charles Roberson, 99 Long Acre, London—a prestigious 19th-century artists’ supplier
Cultural Significance
Edward John Cobbett was a distinguished member of the Royal Society of British Artists and exhibited widely at the Royal Academy and Suffolk Street Galleries, with over 100 works shown during his career. His works epitomize Victorian ideals of family, harmony, and pastoral simplicity, embodying the era’s fascination with sentimental rural genre painting. “Happy Moments” reflects both his technical precision and his ability to capture emotional depth in everyday domestic life.
Condition
Craquelure across the surface consistent with age, with the canvas stable and secure. Minor areas of wear and distress to frame, enhancing its antique authenticity. The painting retains excellent vibrancy and tonal depth.
Provenance
Handwritten notes on the stretcher reference Cobbett’s exhibition record, including displays at the Royal Academy and other important galleries.
Dimensions (approximate)
Canvas Height: 30 in
Canvas Width: 25.5 in
Overall Framed Size: 37 in x 33 in
Age
Circa 1860–1880
Description
Historical Context & Origin
Artist: Edward John Cobbett, R.B.A. (1815–1899)
Title: Happy Moments
Region: England
Period: Circa 1860–1880
Medium: Oil on canvas
Description
This exceptional Victorian oil painting by Edward John Cobbett, R.B.A., titled “Happy Moments,” captures the idyllic tranquility of 19th-century rural life. Cobbett, renowned for his sentimental depictions of family and countryside subjects, brings warmth and intimacy to this composition. The work portrays a mother holding her child, accompanied by two additional figures, set against a serene coastal backdrop. Cobbett’s mastery of detail and tone is evident in the soft rendering of faces, the rich earthy palette, and the carefully balanced natural scenery. Signed in the lower right corner: E.J. Cobbett R.B.A.
Features
- Charming rural scene with mother and child, and accompanying figures
- Serene coastal landscape with finely rendered detail
- Warm Victorian palette emphasizing natural light and harmony
- Signed by the artist, lower right: E.J. Cobbett R.B.A.
Construction Details
- Original oil on canvas
- Ornate, period gilt gesso frame with foliate scrollwork and shell motifs
- Stretcher stamped Charles Roberson, 99 Long Acre, London—a prestigious 19th-century artists’ supplier
Cultural Significance
Edward John Cobbett was a distinguished member of the Royal Society of British Artists and exhibited widely at the Royal Academy and Suffolk Street Galleries, with over 100 works shown during his career. His works epitomize Victorian ideals of family, harmony, and pastoral simplicity, embodying the era’s fascination with sentimental rural genre painting. “Happy Moments” reflects both his technical precision and his ability to capture emotional depth in everyday domestic life.
Condition
Craquelure across the surface consistent with age, with the canvas stable and secure. Minor areas of wear and distress to frame, enhancing its antique authenticity. The painting retains excellent vibrancy and tonal depth.
Provenance
Handwritten notes on the stretcher reference Cobbett’s exhibition record, including displays at the Royal Academy and other important galleries.
Dimensions (approximate)
Canvas Height: 30 in
Canvas Width: 25.5 in
Overall Framed Size: 37 in x 33 in
Age
Circa 1860–1880
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