Antique French Paintings
From enamel miniatures to 19th century still lifes, and everything in between, you can scour our collection of over 300 antique French paintings to curate your own one-of-a-kind at-home gallery.
Whether you’re an art critic in the making or simply know what you love, you can unearth a wealth of treasures right here. Opt for a moody vibe with a dark moonlight oil on canvas seascape. Or consider the achingly classical wall frieze watercolour that was once housed in an elegant French chateau. Or consider a couple of pretty paintings of French villages to adorn your study.
At Vinterior, you can shun the sameness of interiors magazine covers and opt for something different. Shop sustainably and welcome a French piece of social history into your home. Enjoy surrounding yourself with whimsical French landscapes and the odd antique French impressionist paintings of 19th century noblemen. Enjoy browsing our curated edit below.
Choose a Wish List
Create Wish List
What should I look for in an antique French painting?
Whether you’re on the hunt for a dreamy French landscape painting or a bold impressionist iteration, there are certain features to consider if you want a bona fide masterpiece in the making to make up your art collection.
While famous French paintings by the likes of Monet, Cezanne and Degas may sell for millions in auction houses across the world, this doesn’t mean you can’t have your own little piece of artistic French magic in your home. Choose a pair of gorgeous watercolour views of Marseille painted in the 18th century to brighten up your hallway. Opt for a more abstract and vibrant post-impressionist oil on canvas. Or consider a still life of fruit and flowers to add antique flair to your space.
When choosing an antique French painting, take a look at the brushstrokes. If you want an original piece, there should be clear texture apparent on oils. Even a watercolour should appear a little rough on the surface when viewed at an angle. Also consider the importance of provenance. A signed painting will be more valuable than one that isn’t.
Styles of French painting
Romanticism developed in the late 18th century and focused on more personal and intimate scenes rather than idealised compositions. From the mid 19th century, realism emerged. Artists looked to normal people doing normal jobs as their inspiration. Farmers, transport, and city scenes became popular. In the late 19th century, impressionism took hold. French masters such as Monet and Renoir painted whimsical delights, slightly smudgy in nature. Waterlillies, seascapes, landscapes, and beach scenes with light and delicate tones were common.
Antique French paintings range from the behemoth oil on canvas masterpieces that could fill an entire wall to the more delicate gold gilt-framed watercolours. Scroll through our collection and enjoy perusing a wealth of paintings that could soon be gracing the walls of your home.