Thomas Barker of Bath - Rocky Path With Figures

Thomas Barker of Bath (1769-1847) British

Rocky Path With Figures

oil on oak panel
unframed 13 x 11 cm 
framed 23 x 20 cm
written on the back: Rocky Path With Figures by Barker of Bath

Provenance:
A Swedish private collection.

Condition:
The painting has recently undergone restoration by our conservator and is in excellent condition. It comes with a beautiful gold frame, whit a fine patina with minor flaws. 

Essay:
This exquisite painting, titled "Rocky Path With Figures" is a captivating example of Thomas Barker of Bath's talent. Despite its small size, measuring only 13 x 11 cm, this piece showcases Barker's skill in capturing the essence of rural life and landscape, which he was so well known for. The painting features a serene and picturesque scene, where travelers navigate a rocky path through a wooded area. The attention to detail in the figures and the landscape highlights Barker's dedication to his craft and his ability to bring a scene to life.

Thomas Barker, also known as Barker of Bath, was a British painter renowned for his landscapes and depictions of rural life. Born in Trosnant near Pontypool, Monmouthshire, Barker displayed a talent for drawing from a young age. Despite being entirely self-taught, his artistic skills flourished, leading to a prolific career that spanned several decades.

Barker's journey to becoming an acclaimed artist began when his family moved to Bath, where he gained the patronage of Charles Spackman, a wealthy coach-builder. This support allowed Barker to refine his skills by copying the works of Dutch and Flemish masters. His talent soon gained recognition, and he became a regular exhibitor at prestigious institutions such as the Royal Academy and the British Institution.

Thomas Barker's works are held in several prominent museums and galleries, including:

• Tate Gallery, London: Houses six of Barker's paintings, including "A Woodman and his Dog in a Storm."
• Victoria Art Gallery, Bath: Home to "Hampton Rocks, Morning."
• Folger Shakespeare Library, Washington, D.C.: Displays "Macbeth and the Witches."
• Wolverhampton Art Gallery: Features "Italian Landscape 1808" "Landscape with a Waterfall" and "Landscape with Cattle."