Antique French Forest Landscape by Narcisse Díaz de la Peña (1807–1876) a Barbizon School Master

A mysterious and atmospheric forest landscape by Narcisse Díaz de la Peña (1807–1876), one of the celebrated masters of the Barbizon School. This original 19th century oil painting captures the quiet magic of the woods with Díaz’s signature depth, shadow, and romantic mood. The painting comes in a orignal frame and the unsigned painting has been attributed by the original gallerist about 150 years ago.

This evocative French landscape shows a solitary figure resting at the base of a tree, enveloped in deep forest greenery. The dense dark foliage, soft natural light, and velvety shadows are hallmarks of Narcisse Díaz de la Peña’s distinctive style — a poetic blend of Romanticism and naturalism that helped shape the Barbizon movement. Díaz was known for his richly textured brushwork and ability to conjure atmosphere from darkness. Here, he creates a forest scene that feels both intimate and enchanted, a refuge of shade and stillness. This work stands firmly within his mature style, reflecting the emotional gravity and tonal harmony that made him one of the most beloved painters of 19th-century France.

Condition
Good antique condition with age-appropriate craquelure and gentle wear. Frame shows minor surface wear consistent with its age and a patch on the back. Presented in a period gilt frame with carved detailing, the painting has powerful presence and refined authenticity. A significant collectible work by an important French artist.

Artist Bio — Narcisse Díaz de la Peña (1807–1876)
Narcisse Virgilio Díaz de la Peña was a major figure of the Barbizon School, born in Bordeaux in 1807. After losing a leg in childhood, he turned to painting as both livelihood and passion. Díaz became one of the movement’s most distinctive voices, known for his glowing forest interiors, richly textured surfaces, and romantic, dreamlike atmosphere.

He worked closely with Théodore Rousseau, often painting beside him in the Forest of Fontainebleau, and was deeply admired by the next generation — including the young Renoir, who credited Díaz with teaching him the use of warm, luminous colour.

Díaz’s work is represented in many of the world’s most important museums, including:
• Musée du Louvre, Paris
• Musée d’Orsay, Paris
• Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York
• National Gallery of Art, Washington, D.C.
• The National Gallery, London
• Philadelphia Museum of Art
• Art Institute of Chicago
• Hermitage Museum, Saint Petersburg
• Museum of Fine Arts, Boston
• Walters Art Museum, Baltimore

His paintings were widely collected in Europe and America during his lifetime, and he remains one of the most recognised names associated with 19th-century French landscape painting.

Sizing incl Frame:
Height: 19.69 inch (50cm)
Width: 16.54 inch (42cm)
Depth: 2.36 inch (6cm)

Sizing Painting:
Height: 12.80 inch (32.5cm)
Width: 9.45 inch (24cm)
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