Pheasant Still Life — Signed Oil on Board

A richly atmospheric game-bird still life, this oil painting depicts a pheasant resting across a pale surface against a deep, shadowed background. Copper, russet, and golden-brown passages move through the plumage, while the dark head and small red facial marking provide a compelling focal point.

The low, horizontal composition allows the bird’s body and sweeping tail feathers to carry the scene. Loose, textured strokes suggest the layered softness of the feathers, contrasting with the lighter, more broadly painted foreground.

The work belongs to the European tradition of game still lifes, where birds and other hunting subjects became studies in color, texture, and light. The lower-right signature appears to read “Ernest Midy,” suggesting a possible attribution to the Belgian painter.

A substantial gold-toned frame surrounds the intimate composition with scrolling foliage and ornamental borders. Beautiful in a dining room, library, or country-house-inspired interior, this piece offers moody depth and richly worked detail.

Details

• Subject: Pheasant game still life
• Medium: Oil on board
• Artist: Attributed to Ernest Midy
• Signature: Lower right; appears to read “Ernest Midy”
• Origin: Possibly Belgian, based on the proposed attribution
• Period: Probably late 19th to early 20th century
• Palette: Deep brown, copper, russet, ochre, and cream
• Frame: Broad gold-toned frame with scrolling foliate ornament
• Condition: Great overall antique condition
• Attribution Note: Signature reading and artist attribution have not been independently authenticated.

Measurements: 20" L x 13.5" H x 3" D