Vase of flowers on a shelf, 1783, by LE RICHE (I. S. J. Le Riche)

Oil on canvas Signed and dated lower right: "LeRiche,
1783 "
Dimensions : 36 x W : 44 cm (Ac) - 24 x 32 cm (Sc)

The Artist
was a painter in Versailles during the 18th century.
Starting from 1780, he held the position of "painter to the Queen's
Buildings" and created decorative paintings in the Belvedere of the Petit Trianon.
In addition, he embellished furniture with his floral compositions,
including a half-moon chest of drawers bearing the stamp of Cosson.
The collection of the Comtesse du Barry is a testament to the artist's elegance.
The sophisticated arrangement
of his floral compositions demonstrates an original style, to the extent
that it is often tempting to attribute to him the authorship of anonymous paintings.

Signed works are scarce, which highlights the regrettable lack of
biographical documents about the delicate painter, De sentiments préromantiques.


The work:
This 18th-century painting epitomises the magnificence of still life.


In the centre of the composition, adelicately designed vase stands regally on a veined marble entablature. In the centre of the composition, a delicately designed vase stands regally on a veined marble entablature. Enclosed within the vase, a floral arrangement blooms gracefully.
A flower enthusiast showcases a vivid palette of colours, producing a charming display of nature's fleeting beauty.



The artwork frame is a masterpiece, embellished with expertly intertwined garlands of dainty flowers.
Gracefully suspended, a goat's head sits at the top symbolising
fertility and prosperity, imbuing an air of mystery.
The ornate frame meticulously carved in detail adds depth to
the whole.
Achieving perfect harmony between form and substance, the artist
masterfully depicts the delicate equilibrium of life and death, fragility and
permanence in this exquisite still life.
A timeless masterpiece that never fails to mesmerize and inspire generations to come.