Théophile Emmanuel Duverger, Backstage

Théophile Emmanuel Duverger, BackstageThis charming mid 19th century oil painting by French artist Thophile Emmanuel Duverger (1821 1886) depicts a young woman preparing a child for a stage appearance while another looks through a small hole towards the actors. All three are in costume perhaps theyre siblings. It was previously sold at Christies in 1990. Duvergers world was one of domestic utopia, where children play gleefully, wide eyed toddlers sit patiently, and gardens are abundant

But beyond 1880

was adapted with the addition of bicycle wheels

Canvas could be easily cleaned to revive its rich colours but we prefer it as it is

burning the candle at both ends - studying music and art in tandem and seeking to rank among the highest echelons for both

The portrait dates to around 1830 when puffed sleeves were particularly fashionable

respected by their brethren

This 19th-century watercolour by English artist Edgar John Varley (1839-1888) depicts a rural scene with thatched cottages

this unsung hero of British art

Signed (on the door)/dated and held within a gilt frame

1992 (lot 187)

Inscribed ‘Lady of Seville

763 for ‘Playing Football Outside the Gun Inn (1844)’