FIRST EMPIRE - FRENCH WATERCOLOUR OF A HUNTER

A beautiful early watercolour of a hunter and his dogs by Jean-Francois Marie Huet Villiers (1772-1830) signed lower right hand side.

housed in an old maple frame. The watercolour shows a few fine paper craquelures here and there, but is free of any damp patches or foxing.

It is a stunning representation of  his work.

Born in Paris, he spent most of his working life in London. He was a versatile artist, drawing landscapes, animals, and architecture, but excelled in his miniature portraits in oils. he was appointed miniature-painter to the duke and duchess of york, and painted many actresses and other ladies in mythological characters. his 'hebe' was very popular and frequently engraved. he exhibited largely at the royal academy of art and other exhibitions from 1803 until his death.

Height 48.5cm.  Width 38.5cm