C. F. Becker — Peasant couple with sheep, genre relief, Saint Petersburg, 1882

Antique relief by C. F. Becker, dated 1882 by a metal stamp on the reverse with a reference to Saint Petersburg, during the period of the Russian Empire. The composition depicts a scene of rural life, featuring a peasant couple accompanied by a sheep, with a small cluster of traditional buildings and the ruins of a monumental fortress in the background.

The female figure wears traditional attire, with a hat and an ornate shawl, and holds a basket with birds. Beside her, the male figure appears wearing a wide-brimmed hat, carrying a walking stick and a travel bag. Between them, the sheep introduces a pastoral element that reinforces the genre-scene character of the depiction.

The work stands out for its meticulous treatment of fabrics, facial features, and architectural details. The main figures, executed in high relief, contrast with the shallower depth of the buildings and the landscape, creating a composition of remarkable spatial richness within a small format.

Made of a mineral material with a calcareous appearance and ivory tone, the piece belongs to the European tradition of nineteenth-century decorative reliefs. It is presented in an antique wooden frame with profuse floral ornamentation and a gilded finish, particularly appropriate for its historical aesthetic.

Technical sheet

• Author or model: C. F. Becker.

• Title: Peasant couple with a sheep before a fortress.

• Technique: Sculptural relief in mineral material, likely calcareous.

• Chronology: Last quarter of the 19th century; stamp dated 1882.

• Geographic reference: Saint Petersburg, Russian Empire, according to the stamp on the reverse.

• Dimensions of the work: 15 × 10 cm.

• Dimensions with frame: 25 × 20.5 cm.

• Signature and inscriptions: Signature integrated into the relief and oval metal stamp on the reverse with monogram, date, and reference to Saint Petersburg.

• Condition: Retains antique patina, light stains, small irregularities, and surface wear. Frame shows signs of age and wear to the gilding.

• Presentation: Framed in ornate, gilded wood, with a rear hanging system.

Workshop Note

An interesting example of European decorative sculpture from the late 19th century, particularly attractive for the narrative richness of its composition and the delicate treatment of details.

The preservation of the historical stamp on the reverse and its elaborate antique frame add additional interest to a piece that combines ornamental value with a testament to nineteenth-century decorative arts.