Johan Frederik Clemens After Nicolai Abraham Abildgaard, Socrates

Johan Frederik Clemens After Nicolai Abraham Abildgaard, SocratesThis exquisite late 18th century copperplate engraving by Johan Frederik Clemens (1749 1831) depicts the Greek philosopher Socrates. Its after an oil painting by Danish painter, Nicolai Abraham Abildgaard (17431809). Here we see the eminent sage deep in introspective contemplation. His burly head resting upon a muscular left hand. Beyond him, grappling for superiority, two shadowy spirits with contrasting agendas. Socrates described having a sixth

Size including frame 15½” x 19¼” / 39cm x 49cm

Gallery stamps

There’s a gorgeous sense of vibrancy and balance in this piece that transports us back to Paris at the turn of the century

Perhaps he enjoyed the liberation of painting smaller studies when compared to his “day job”

another figure is coming towards them

With an expression that alludes to both accrued wisdom and mild terror

David Bates (1840-1921) depicts Moel Siabod

1930Provenance: GermanyCondition: Craquelure and some scruffy areas around the edges

a sumptuous folio of sheet music rests on a chair

Valdemar Magaard (1864-1937)

a portrait artist

Yet Broge pitches his easel here