Small Oil on Board of a Bacchic Feast by PN Brisset, 1841 - 8¼" x 14¼"

A small and atmospheric oil on board depicting a Roman orgy scene by Pierre Nicolas Brisset, dated 1841. Rather than focusing on precise detail, the composition is treated in a loose and suggestive manner, with fluid brushwork and softly blended forms creating an impression of movement, sensuality, and theatrical decadence. Figures recline across draped fabrics within a dimly lit classical interior animated by warm reddish tones and dramatic contrasts of light. The scene feels more evocative than descriptive, capturing the spirit of 19th century fascination with Antiquity and the imagined excesses of ancient Rome. The reverse retains handwritten inscriptions identifying the subject as “Orgie Romaine” and attributing the work to Pierre Nicolas Brisset, dated 1841.

Brisset (1792–1859) was a French painter active during the Romantic period who studied at the Villa Medici in Rome after winning the Second Prix de Rome. Deeply influenced by his years in Italy, he produced numerous works inspired by Antiquity, Roman history, and classical mythology, favoring atmosphere, sensuality, and theatrical suggestion.

The surface displays fine craquelure throughout consistent with age, yet remains remarkably well preserved, with no noticeable paint losses. Presented in a simple gilt frame, the painting retains the intimate charm and immediacy of a cabinet picture.

Intimate in scale yet rich in atmosphere, it would bring warmth, curiosity, and a subtly bohemian note to a library, study, or layered salon wall. Given its mischievously Bacchic subject, it would also make a wonderfully witty addition to a dining room or wine room.