19th Century Oil Painting Daniel in the Lions' Den
🎨 Daniel in the Lions' Den, Signed and Dated 1881 Attributed To Isaac Findler (British 1809–1888)
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🖼️ Subject & Medium
A striking and atmospheric Victorian religious narrative oil painting on canvas depicting the celebrated biblical story of Daniel in the Lions' Den, traditionally attributed to the Staffordshire artist Isaac Findler (1809–1888).
The composition portrays Daniel seated calmly upon a rocky outcrop within a shadowy wilderness setting, surrounded by lions yet remaining unharmed through divine protection. Clad in a vivid crimson robe, Daniel gazes heavenward in prayer and contemplation, conveying a profound sense of faith, devotion, and spiritual resilience.
Executed in oil on canvas and dated 1881, this impressive nineteenth-century biblical painting captures one of the most enduring narratives of the Old Testament. Rich in symbolism and religious significance, the work possesses both devotional character and considerable decorative appeal. The dramatic contrast between the illuminated figure of Daniel and the surrounding darkness creates an arresting visual presence that immediately draws the viewer into the scene.
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🎨 Composition & Technique
The artist demonstrates a thoughtful understanding of narrative composition, placing Daniel at the centre of the scene while using the surrounding lions to create both visual balance and dramatic tension.
A restrained palette of deep browns, warm earth tones, and rich blacks allows the brilliant crimson robe of Daniel to become the dominant focal point. This careful use of colour not only heightens the visual impact of the painting but also symbolically reinforces Daniel's spiritual significance within the narrative.
Particular attention has been paid to the expression of Daniel, whose calm and contemplative demeanour contrasts with the alert and watchful presence of the lions. Strong chiaroscuro modelling creates depth and atmosphere throughout the composition, whilst the dark wilderness backdrop enhances the sense of isolation, danger, and divine intervention.
The painting displays many qualities associated with Victorian provincial religious art, where storytelling, emotion, and moral instruction were often prioritised over strict academic convention. As a biblical narrative work, it successfully combines dramatic storytelling with a powerful message of faith, courage, and divine protection.
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📜 Historical Context
The story of Daniel in the Lions' Den originates from the Book of Daniel in the Old Testament and remains one of the most powerful narratives of faith and perseverance within Christian tradition.
According to scripture, Daniel was condemned to be thrown into a den of lions after refusing to abandon his devotion to God. Through divine intervention, the lions did not harm him, and he emerged unharmed from the ordeal. The episode became a lasting symbol of unwavering faith, courage in the face of persecution, and ultimate spiritual triumph.
Throughout the nineteenth century, biblical paintings such as this enjoyed immense popularity across Britain. Religious artworks were frequently displayed in private homes, schools, chapels, and public institutions, serving as both decoration and moral instruction. The subject of Daniel in the Lions' Den was particularly admired for its dramatic imagery and inspirational message.
Today, Victorian religious paintings remain highly sought after by collectors who appreciate their rich symbolism, narrative strength, and historical connection to nineteenth-century religious culture.
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👨🎨 About The Artist
Isaac Findler was born in 1809 and lived in the Staffordshire village of Cheddleton near Leek. Although employed professionally as a house painter and decorator, he developed a reputation as a talented local artist producing landscapes, religious subjects, decorative commissions, and sign painting.
It is believed that Findler devoted increasing amounts of time to painting after his son assumed responsibility for the family decorating business during the late 1860s. He subsequently became known throughout the region for his distinctive and highly individual artistic style.
In 1874 he held a public exhibition of his work in Leek, and examples of his paintings remain preserved within regional museum collections. Significantly, an earlier depiction of Daniel surrounded by lions painted by Findler in 1846 is held within the Staffordshire County Museum collection, demonstrating the artist's long-standing fascination with this biblical narrative.
The present painting, dated 1881, would therefore represent a mature work executed during the latter years of his artistic career.
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✍️ Signed
Signed lower left "Findler" and dated 1881, although part of the signature and date are partially obscured by the frame.
The painting is offered as attributed to Isaac Findler based upon the visible signature, subject matter, stylistic characteristics, period, and comparison with documented works by the artist. This attribution is provided as a professional non-guaranteed opinion based upon visual examination and available research.
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🖼️ Framed
Presented in an attractive traditional painted frame that complements both the sombre palette and devotional character of the painting.
The reverse retains a label for Sevenoaks Art Shop, Kent, reflecting a later stage in the work's framing history and demonstrating that the painting has been professionally presented during its lifetime.
Fitted with hanging cord and ready for immediate display.
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📏 Size
Frame Dimensions
Height: 83.3 cm (32.8 inches)
Width: 67.4 cm (26.5 inches)
Depth: 2.5 cm (1 inch)
Canvas Dimensions
Height: 76 cm (29.9 inches)
Width: 60.5 cm (23.8 inches)
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🏛️ Provenance
Private Collection, United Kingdom.
Retaining a Sevenoaks Art Shop framing label to the reverse.
Sourced via Halls Fine Art Auctioneers, Shropshire.
Curated by Cheshire Antiques Consultant LTD.
Privately Loaned and Exhibited with the Famous Lord Hill Museum.
Research accompanying the work references the artist's documented exhibition history together with the related Daniel in the Lions' Den composition held by Staffordshire County Museum.
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✅ Why You'll Love It
🟢 Attributed to Isaac Findler (1809–1888)
🟢 Signed and dated 1881
🟢 Fine example of Victorian religious narrative painting
🟢 Powerful biblical subject with enduring spiritual significance
🟢 Large and impressive display size
🟢 Strong use of light, shadow, and atmosphere
🟢 Striking crimson robe creating a dramatic focal point
🟢 Rich Victorian storytelling and symbolism
🟢 Excellent decorative appeal for traditional, ecclesiastical, and country house interiors
🟢 Attractive provenance and exhibition history
🟢 Ideal for collectors of biblical, religious, Victorian, and provincial British art
🟢 Ready to hang and enjoy immediately
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🔍 Condition Report
Presented in good overall condition for its age.
The canvas remains stable and securely stretched and has been relined. Examination reveals age-related craquelure, minor surface wear, scuffs, scratches, and small paint surface irregularities consistent with a nineteenth-century oil painting. The later frame displays expected age-related wear, marks, and minor imperfections commensurate with age and handling.
The work presents attractively and retains considerable visual impact when displayed.
