HD, Double-Sided Painting — Interior and Forest, 1970s, Wood and Canvas

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Double-sided painting - Interior and forest - monogram “HD”. Author: unidentified. Signature: monogram “HD”, on the side representing the forest. … Read more Double-sided painting - Interior and forest - monogram “HD”. Author: unidentified. Signature: monogram “HD”, on the side representing the forest. Attributed titles: Interior with table beside the window and Path through the forest. Probable period: second half of the 20th century, possibly c. 1970–1990. Country/school: probably European; possibly Portuguese school. Technique: oil on canvas, painted on both sides. Dimensions with frame: 58.5 × 53 cm. Painting dimensions: 30.5 × 25.5 cm. Style: Impressionist. Themes: domestic interior and forest landscape. First side - Interior: Intimate scene representing the interior of a rustic dwelling. In the center there is a table with a bottle, glass, fruit and bread, accompanied by a wooden chair. An open door and a window divided into four panes reveal the verdant landscape outside. In the left foreground appears a dark curved structure, probably part of a chair, bench or hanging net. This line also functions as a graphic element, guiding the eye to the center of the composition. The painting is executed with free and relatively thick brushstrokes, using a palette dominated by browns, grays, greens, and blacks. The architectural elements are defined by dark and simplified outlines, creating a silent and melancholic atmosphere. The incidence of external light on the darkened interior constitutes the main contrast of the composition. Second side - Forest: On the opposite side, there is a densely wooded landscape, crossed by a path or clearing that leads the eye to a luminous area in the background. The dark, vertical trunks form a kind of natural corridor, while the foliage is constructed through small overlapping brushstrokes. The palette combines deep greens, yellows, ochres, whites, browns, and bluish details. The gestural application of paint and the light reflections between the trees produce an effect of light filtered through the vegetation. The treatment is more spontaneous and impressionistic than that observed in the interior scene. In the lower left corner is the monogram “HD”, painted in a light color and perfectly legible. The initials, in isolation, do not allow the work to be attributed to an artist such as Henrique Pousão, Henrique de Sousa, Hélène de Beauvoir, or any other known painter. The peculiarity of the double-sided painting should be highlighted, as it adds interest and decorative value. Condition: In good condition. The painted surfaces show some dirt, small spots, irregularities, and wear consistent with age. No tears are visible in the canvas. The gilded wooden frame is bulky and decorative, showing wear, scratches, and minor losses in the gilding. See less