This is a monumental and spectacular 18th century, or possibly early 19th,  oil on canvas of the Italian school. The canvas depicts a shepherd serenading a maiden in a wooded glen. Between them she holds a garland of lowers, as sheep and cows forage in the background. Unsigned. In a substantial gilt frame.
This painting shows evidence of age, with craquelure, some tears and abrasions, and old repairs throughout. Somehow the bumps and scratches seem to add to its charm, imparting a beautiful feeling of age and an element of rusticity to the piece. It is a work that evokes the old grand masters but feels simpler and more intimate, despite its scale. The maiden in particular emerges from the surrounding darkness of the landscape with an exquisitely beautiful face, while the shepherd sports a jaunty hat.
The frame is more recent and in excellent condition. This painting would also look incredible after restoration and cleaning.
54" wide by 42" high, framed. 44" by 33" sight.