An oil on panel painting by French artist, Adolphe Alexandre Lesrel (1839-1929) entitled "The Connoisseur", signed and dated 1891. The painting depicts two gentlemen in 17th Century attire with the seated man examining a gilt silver pokal. A pokal is a covered presentation drinking vessel, typically of German origin and predominant in the 16th and 17th Centuries, but also popularized during the Historicism or Historismus period of the late 19th Century. The main figure also has a fine swept hilt rapier sword, which was often used for personal protection and commonly carried by wealthy merchants of the 17th Century. Each man is depicted in exquisite detail as is the manner of this artist.

From the archives of AskArt: Adolphe Alexandre Lesrel was born at Genet in France on 19th May, 1839.  He studied painting and was greatly influenced by the famous French artist Jean-Louis Meissonier (1815-1891), who painted detailed military subjects.

During the 19th century people developed a vivid fascination for the past.  This was particularly true in France where memories of the recently deposed monarchy were still strong and the political situation was volatile.  Paintings emphasized the human qualities of the subjects, and in Lesrel's works he alludes to the paternal qualities of the monarchy by painting the King's men at ease in their domestic situations.

Lesrel gives us an intimate and nostalgic glimpse of the past. His cavaliers are exquisitely painted with every attention paid to detail.  His colours are rich and vibrant and his rendition of luxurious is outstanding.

The artist was elected to the Society of French Artists in 1885 and he received an award from them in the Exposition Universalle in 1889.  He became an Associate of the Salon de la Nationale Beaux Arts in 1890 and regularly exhibited his works there.

The painting and frame are in excellent condition and is ready to hang. The dimensions of the painting are approximately 18 1/4" x 15" and overall with the gilt frame measures 23" x 19 1/2".

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