FRANZ ROUBAUD (1856-1928). CAUCASIENS TRAVERSANT UNE RIVIÈRE MUNICH

An evocative genre composition by the distinguished Russian and European battle painter and Orientalist Franz Roubaud, devoted to the life and traditions of the peoples of the Caucasus. The painting depicts a group of horsemen fording a shallow river in the soft golden light of the setting sun. A male figure in traditional Caucasian dress leads the procession, followed by women wearing richly coloured regional costumes and jewellery. Particular attention is given to the atmospheric effects, the play of reflections across the surface of the water and the ethnographic precision of the details. The costumes, horse tack and objects carried by the riders reflect Roubaud’s profound interest in Caucasian culture, informed by his first-hand observations during his travels through the region. The work is executed in the artist’s characteristic manner, combining a dynamic composition, free and vigorous brushwork, a richly modulated palette and a refined sense of movement. The warm golden tonality of the evening light and the intimate nature of the subject place the painting among Roubaud’s accomplished Orientalist cabinet pictures of his Munich period. The painting is presented in an elaborately ornamented gilt frame of classical inspiration, enriched with moulded foliate decoration and enhancing the work’s distinguished presentational character. Signature: Signed lower left: “F. Roubaud”. Dimensions: Canvas: 50 × 40 cm. Frame: 91 × 82 cm. Medium: Oil on canvas. Markings: The reverse bears the stamp of Kellner, the Munich art materials supplier; the stretcher bears old collection and inventory markings. Condition: In good overall condition. Minor surface signs of age and a fine craquelure consistent with the date of the work. The canvas has not been lined. Provenance: Private collection, Germany. Expertise: Olga Sugrobova-Roth, who examined the painting in person in March 2026, confirms the authenticity of the work. The painting will be included in the digital supplement to the Franz Roubaud catalogue raisonné under reference number A 30 - P.

Estimate:£33,468.76

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