Georges Croegaert

As with his contemporaries, Jean-Georges Vibert and François Brunery, Croegaert is particularly well known for his paintings of red-robed cardinals.  Not meant to be polemical or political, these engaging works invite the viewer to take a private look behind the hallowed walls of the church.  In works like Private Indulgence, the religious duties of cardinals and clergy are secondary to everyday pursuits of gardening, painting, promenading or enjoying a delicious repast of fresh oysters (which themselves have a slightly scandalous epicurean symbology).   The artist’s brilliant use of detail captures each of the various accoutrements of the meal from chopped herbs sprinkled on the oysters, a torn baguette, a plate of freshly cut lemon, and cruet of delicious liquor.  The luxurious quality of the meal is replicated in the décor of the dining room with a richly carved sideboard, delicately ornate lace, upholstered chair, and wall covering, the complex pattern including a hunched squirrel nibbling nuts, gently mocking the cardinal about to take his first briny bite.  Here the only member of the cardinal’s audience is his pet terrier, seemingly eager to share in the meal, yet the edges of the richly patterned carpet, upturned against the picture plane, suggests the viewer can step inside the room and sample the fresh seafood themselves.