Hugo Breul (American, 1854-1910). Oil on board. Signed lower left. Dimensions: 11.5" x 8.75". Framed: 14.5" x 11.75". Housed in original frame. This prolific and skilled early RI painter was one of the leading artists in the City of Providence in the later 19th century. Breul’s initial art instruction was with O. Seitz in Germany, Boulanger and Lefebvre in Paris and finally, with W. Merritt Chase in America. Breul settled in Providence in 1883 and became one of the early members of the Providence Art Club, working in a studio in the Butler Exchange building. The artist was proficient in a number of subjects, including portraits, figures, nature and animals. Despite artist success & patronage in the 1880s through 1900, at the age of 56, Breul found himself deeply in debt, with dwindling patronage, and consequently committed suicide. His works are in many Rhode Island homes, as well as institutions, including The Providence Art Club, Providence Public Library, Athenaeum, Brown University, Providence City Hall, and the Rhode Island State House.From the collection of Dante Russillo and Claudia Beach who passionately collected Providence School artists of merit in the 1980’s.

Good. Housed in original frame.

14.5 x 11.75 in

4 lb