The Smithy

Eugene Isabey 1803 - 1886

Summary

This loosely brushed oil sketch of a blacksmith at work is likely to date from the latter part of Isabey's career. The sensation of extreme heat is cleverly conveyed: a plume of steam rises into the diabolical crimson shadows of the forge, while small, licking brushstrokes make the smith's trousers appear as if on fire. Son of the great portrait painter, Jean-Baptiste Isabey, Eugène (like many young artists of the day) began his training by copying at the Louvre. In 1821 his father took him to England, where he is likely to have met his father's acquaintance Richard Parkes Bonington. His work certainly shows the influence of the Englishman's watercolour style. Delacroix was another important influence. He is best known for Normandy seascapes, genre painting and historical costume pieces.