Gerard Jozef Portielje (Belgium/England, 1856-1929) oil on board genre painting depicting two women having tea in a well appointed interior that includes a large press, porcelain, and portraits lining the walls. The finely dressed women, each wearing a bonnet with pink ribbons, are seated on opposite sides of a table illuminated by light from a window to the left. Signed "Gerard Portielje" lower right. Unframed. 14 3/4" H x 18 1/4" W. Biography: Gerard Jozef Portielje was a Belgian painter known for his genre scenes that frequently combined humor, social commentary, and detailed interior settings. He was born in Antwerp, the son of painter Jan Portielje, and his younger brother, Edward (1861-1949), was also a painter. He studied at the Royal Academy of Fine Arts in Antwerp. When World War 1 broke out, Portielje relocated to England, but later returned to Antwerp and taught at Lange Leemstraat and the Antwerp Academy. He died in 1929 in Remich.
Condition
Overall good condition with craquelure throughout; scattered minute surface wear, including scratches, largest measuring 4" L; and minor abrasion to paint layer, primarily at edges. Board with wear to corners.