Collection: Thomas Reynolds Lamont "The Prince's Choice"
"The Prince's Choice" by Thomas Reynolds Lamont, created in 1881, is a significant work in the genre of historical and genre painting. This oil on canvas piece, measuring approximately 60 x 102 inches (5 x 8.5 feet), captures a wildly romantic scene amidst a bustling and vividly celebratory crowd. The painting has passed through several notable auctions, including Christie's in 1978 and Sotheby's in 1983, reflecting its ongoing appeal and value among collectors and art historians. Lamont, a 19th-century British artist known for his detailed and vibrant genre scenes, has captured a moment rich in texture, color, and narrative, making it a notable example of Victorian art.
The Victorian art period coincides with the reign of Queen Victoria in the United Kingdom, which lasted from 1837 to 1901. This era was marked by significant social, cultural, and technological changes that were reflected in the art of the time. Victorian art reflects the complex nature of the period encompassing various movements and styles, from the early Romanticism of the 1830s and 1840s to the Aesthetic Movement of the late 19th century, which emphasized beauty and visual pleasure over moral or narrative content.
Key characteristics of Victorian art include:
-
Realism and Detail: Victorian artists often focused on realism and meticulous detail, striving to capture the world around them accurately.
-
Moral and Social Themes: Many works dealt with moral and social issues, reflecting the values and concerns of Victorian society.
-
Narrative Art: Storytelling through art was a common practice, with paintings often depicting scenes from literature, history, and everyday life.
-
Romanticism: Early Victorian art was influenced by the Romantic movement, emphasizing emotion and nature.
