M. Paules – Horse and Handler

M. Paules – Horse and Handler

A charming small oil painting by M. Paules, depicting a bay horse being held by a handler in a rural landscape. The composition has a pleasing decorative quality, with the horse placed in profile against a softly painted countryside background, while the handler adds a gentle narrative element to the scene.

Paules is a little-documented 20th-century artist whose works have appeared at auction in the UK and Europe, including animal, sporting, rural, harbour and still-life subjects. He has been catalogued at auction as Dutch, 20th century, though detailed biographical information appears to be scarce. This example fits well within that known decorative tradition, particularly in its small scale, animal subject, ornate presentation and convex oval format.

The painting is signed M. Paules lower right, and is presented in a highly decorative gilt frame with bold scrolling ornament. The work is in the traditional convex oval style, giving the painted surface a gently domed quality that adds depth and period character. The frame is heavy for its size and is likely made from a wooden base with applied composition, gesso, or similar moulded decorative ornament, finished in gilt. Its weight and elaborate raised detail give the work a strong period-style presence.

Details

Artist: M. Paules
Title: Horse and Handler
Medium: Oil on convex oval panel
Date: 20th century
Framed Size: 38 x 33 cm
Signature: Signed lower right
Frame: Heavy ornate gilt frame, likely wood with applied composition/gesso ornament
Condition: The painting is in good overall condition, with slight yellowing to the varnish. The frame is also in good condition overall, with some surface dirt and minor age-related wear visible on close inspection. The ornate gilt finish remains attractive and highly decorative.