Le Troupeau

19th-century oil painting on wood panel attributed to Charles-Émile Jacque (1813–1894). The work bears a handwritten label on the reverse with the artist’s name. As it is unsigned, it can only be attributed to Charles-Émile Jacque.

A rustic and poetic piece. This early oil painting on wood shows a shepherd and his flock of sheep grazing and drinking from a marsh. The animals, rendered in rich, earthy tones, blend naturally into the muted landscape. The expansive sky dominates nearly two-thirds of the composition and has taken on a soft patina over time, appropriate for a piece over 150 years old.

Jacque, who settled in Barbizon and worked alongside masters like Jean-François Millet, was known for depicting rural life and laborers with dignity and realism. This work embodies that ethos, offering a quiet, grounded moment far from the academic traditions that came before.

Good condition for its age. The surface shows the passage of time, with a warm, rusty palette, some white speckling (likely from past moisture) in the lower right, scattered surface scratches, and a few small areas of paint loss — particularly in the sky. The antique frame is in very good condition.

About the artist: 

Charles Émile Jacque (23 May 1813 to 7 May 1894) was born and died in Paris. Initially trained as an engraver (apprenticed to a map engraver), he first found success through etching, which remained his favored medium before he turned primarily to painting.

In 1849, Jacque settled in Barbizon alongside Jean François Millet. The rural setting and practice of direct observation deeply shaped his work. A specialist in pastoral scenes, he became particularly known for his depictions of sheep and flocks, earning him the title of one of the great “sheep painters” of his era.

In addition to his painting, Jacque played a significant role in the 19th century revival of etching, illustrating numerous books with his engravings. He received multiple honors, including medals at the Salon and the title of Chevalier of the Légion d’Honneur in 1867.

• Overall Size: 10.6" x 13.7" / 27cm x 35.5cm.
• Size without frame: 7.8" x 10.6" / 20cm x 27cm.
• Country of origin: France.
• Attributed to: Charles-Émile Jacque (1813-1894). 
• Creation date: Mid-19th century. 
• Condition: Good condition for its age. The surface shows the passage of time, with a warm, rusty palette, some white speckling (likely from past moisture) in the lower right, scattered surface scratches, and a few small areas of paint loss — particularly in the sky. The antique frame is in very good condition.
• Materials: Oil painting on wood panel in an antique wood frame.
• Shipping: Complimentary shipping to the US and Europe. A surcharge will be applied for deliveries to Australia, New Zealand, and Asia.
• DDP shipping: All taxes and import fees are included in the listed price.