Jules Rullens

JULES RULLENS (Belgium, 1858-1936).
"The Singing Lesson", 1886.
Oil on canvas.
Signed and dated in the lower left corner.
It presents old restorations.
Measurements: 97 x 136 cm; 99.5 x 139.5 cm (frame).

A lesson of song of ecclesiastical court stars the scene. A friar dressed in Franciscan habit turns the pages of the cantorial while a young altar boy intones the canticles. Our gaze is unquestionably focused on the young apprentice's costume, of a strong carmine hue, as well as on his concentrated gesture in search of excellence. The precious workmanship of both characters stands out, with special attention to the chromatic shifts of earthy tones that bathe the entire scene.

Jules Rullens trained at the Royal Academy of Fine Arts in Brussels. He is known mainly for his interior scenes, portraits and pastoral views with animals at rest. Best pupil of J. Portaels, he won numerous awards. His works are preserved in private collections throughout Europe and abroad.