Cristall O.W.S. (Attributed to), Joshua (1767 – 1847) – Figure Composition, possibly Adam and Eve Mourning the Death of Abel.

This work closely relates to a group of small oils by Cristall in the Victoria Art Gallery, Bath. The treatment of the figures, background and foliage all stylistically match the Bath works, and the pose of the female figure reappears almost exactly in one. The whole tenor of the work is also in key with Cristall's paintings in both oils and watercolour. Cristall was at the Royal Academy Schools where he was taught and influenced by Barry and he was an early member of the Sketching Society. He was one of the few watercolourists of his generation who could successfully work in oils and combine well drawn, complex figure groupings within a landscape setting. This painting may show 'Adam and Eve Mourning the Death of Abel', but Cristall's early compositions are almost all classical subjects. This and the (semi)nudity of the figures makes us suspect that this might be a Classical subject too. Please contact the gallery for further information regarding this work.