Smith, John: A catalogue raisonné of the works of the most eminent Dutch, Flemish, and French painters: in which is included a short biographical notice of the artists, with a copious description of their principal pictures : a statement of the prices at which such pictures have been sold at public sales on the continent and in England; a reference the the galleries and private collections in which a large portion are at present; and the names of the artists by whom they have been engraved; to which is added, a brief notice of the scholars & imitators of the great masters of the above schools (Part 3) (London: Smith and Son, 1831)

386

DAVID TENIERS.

The Seasons. A series of four pictures, each of which is
distinguished by a faithful delineation of the various productions
of nature, agricultural occupations, and pleasures peculiar to the
season intended to be represented; the signs of the Zodiac,
which govern the several months, are faintly depicted in the
heavens.
1 ft. lOsbz. by 2 ft. 9 in.—Cop.
484. Spring—presents a view of a picturesque Landscape,
in which the artist has introduced his own chateau, surrounded
by lofty trees, gardens, and canals; beyond it, on the declivity
of a hill, are some cottages and mills ; and a village is seen in
the distance. Every part of the scene is diversified with figures,
engaged in the various pursuits peculiar to the season; the
artist and his family, forming the principal group, are enjoying
the freshness of the vernal bloom.
485. Summer—represents a rich and fertile country; the
fore-ground enlivened by the interesting occurrence of sheep-
shearing, and numerous peasants, reaping and engaged in
other agricultural labours, are seen in various parts of the
landscape.
486. Autumn.—In this picture, nature is seen under a dif-
ferent, though an equally interesting aspect: the brilliancy of
summer being succeeded by the brown and sober tints of autumn.
The trees are laden with fruit; and the farmer and his labourers
are seen industriously collecting the rich treasures of Pomona.
In the fore-ground are men engaged loading a cart with sacks of
apples ; at a little distance towards the right are others gathering
grapes and hops, whilst a third party are preparing the casks
for the wine and beer. The great number and variety of
pleasing objects which characterize this delightful scene, render
it the most agreeable of the sour.
There is an etching which closely resembles the above picture.