“Diane” — A Pointer, Charles-Léon Herrmann (1838–1907)

Charles-Léon Herrmann (1838–1907)
“Diane” — A Pointer
Signed C.L. Herrmann Léon and dated 1885 lower right; titled “DIANE.” in gilt upper left
Oil on canvas

A beautifully observed portrait of a Pointer bitch, seated in profile, her head lifted with a serene, almost devotional stillness. Herrmann captures the refinement of the breed with remarkable sensitivity: the taut musculature, the soft fall of the ears, and the distinctive liver-and-white markings rendered with a quiet naturalism. Against a deep, neutral background the sitter emerges sculpturally, her form illuminated by a delicate, academic light.

Herrmann was a highly regarded 19th-century French animal painter, exhibiting at the Paris Salon and known particularly for his dogs and horses. Works of this quality and intimacy — especially with the dog named and titled — are rare and sought after. The painting retains an excellent, untouched surface with fine, even craquelure.

A superb example of French animalier portraiture of the period.

Height :104cm
Width :75cm
Depth: 4cm