Matthew Ridley Corbet (English, 1850-1902), In the Sacred Grove

Oil on canvas, 1883, signed and dated at lower right, presented in a later gilt frame.

Stretcher size 30 x 21 in.; Frame dimensions 38 x 29 in.

Exhibited:
London, Royal Academy of Arts, The 115th Annual Exhibition, 1883, no. 38

Matthew Ridley Corbet was an English painter best known for his poetic landscapes of Italy. He studied at the Slade School of Art and later at the Royal Academy Schools under Frederic Leighton, who became an important influence and connection in his early career. Leighton introduced Corbet to his close friend, the Italian landscape painter Giovanni Costa, and the three painted together in Italy. Under Costa’s influence, Corbet turned increasingly from portraiture to landscape and became a leading member of the Etruscan School, whose artists favored panoramic compositions, simplified forms, and subtle effects of light and atmosphere.

Corbet exhibited extensively at the Royal Academy, Grosvenor Gallery, and New Gallery, as well as internationally. His painting Sunrise received a bronze medal at the Paris Exposition of 1889, while Morning Glory and Val d'Arno: Evening were acquired through the prestigious Chantrey Bequest for the national collection. He was elected an Associate of the Royal Academy in 1902, shortly before his death.

Several scattered surface abrasions; a hardboard panel has been inserted between the canvas and stretcher bars for additional support and protection, but is not affixed to the canvas; minor chipping to frame.