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LOT 139

1815 - 1872
Canadian

On the St. Lawrence
oil on canvas
signed, dated 1858 and inscribed "Quebec"
13 1/4 x 18 in, 33.7 x 45.7 cm

Estimate: $70,000 - $90,000 CAD

Sold for: $73,250

Preview at: Heffel Toronto – 13 Hazelton Ave

PROVENANCE
Kenneth R. Thomson, Toronto
Private Collection, Vancouver

LITERATURE
Dennis Reid, Krieghoff: Images of Canada, Art Gallery of Ontario, 1999, reproduced page 160


In 1858, Cornelius Krieghoff was living in Quebec City, and an important part of his oeuvre was the depiction of the habitants, rural French-Canadian working people. This depiction of ordinary life was a genre that originated in Europe—one that Krieghoff, with his Dutch-German background, was quite familiar with. When he introduced it into Canada, it was well received by collectors. Krieghoff had a great affection for the habitants, and he captured their plucky, hard-working nature as well as their enthusiasm for the pleasures of life. In this scene, Krieghoff’s fine eye for detail depicts the characteristic habitant dress, such as the colourful toques, and the distinctive horse, of the breed known as the canadien. This small and spirited horse, descended from Norman and Breton stock, was introduced to Quebec in the seventeenth century; it possessed endurance and strength. Of the various styles of sleighs in Quebec, this one is a cariole - gracefully shaped, brightly painted and supported by distinctive curved runners. This amusing, vivacious scene is a fine example of the genre, with the merrymaking habitants enjoying drinking in the cariole as they glide through the crisp winter atmosphere.


Estimate: $70,000 - $90,000 CAD

All prices are in Canadian Dollars


Although great care has been taken to ensure the accuracy of the information posted, errors and omissions may occur. All bids are subject to our Terms and Conditions of Business. Bidders must ensure they have satisfied themselves with the condition of the Lot prior to bidding. Condition reports are available upon request.