A Vase of Flowers
Painting on canvas • Gerard van Spaendonck (1746-1822)
Style & Movement
Dutch/Flemish Floral Still Life / Neoclassical botanical painting
Medium & Technique
Oil paint on canvas, featuring fine glazing techniques and meticulous botanical rendering against a dark background.
Creation Period
c. 1780-1820
Dimensions & Format
Vertical rectangular format, estimated approximately 60 x 45 cm
Subject Description
A rich and vibrant floral still life featuring an array of meticulously detailed blossoms, including tulips, roses, and a prominent dark blue iris, arranged in a simple brown ceramic vase resting on a wooden ledge with scattered small flowers and insects.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Very Good. The surface appears stable, colors remain rich and saturated, and the varnish is even with minimal visible degradation.
Estimated Market Value
£150,000 - £250,000
Auction Estimate
£100,000 - £200,000
Provenance History
Broughton Collection. Bequeathed by Henry Rogers Broughton, 2nd Lord Fairhaven, 1973, with a life interest to his widow, Joyce, Lady Fairhaven, received 1975.
Art Historical Significance
Representative of the high quality of late 18th-century botanical and still life painting, continuing the rich Dutch floral tradition with enhanced scientific precision and decorative elegance characteristic of Gerard van Spaendonck's work.
Notable Features
Part of a museum display contextualized alongside a descriptive plaque on 'Tulipmania', housed in a handsome period-style dark wood and gilt molding frame with an inscribed plaque.
Condition Issues
Minor age-related craquelure typical of oil on canvas from this period; no major tears, losses, or disruptive restorations are visibly apparent.
Conservation Recommendations
Maintain stable museum-standard climate controls (50% RH, 20°C), UV-filtered lighting, and periodic surface dusting by a professional conservator.