Question 1

How do I identify an oil painting?

Accepted Answer

To identify an oil painting, look closely at its surface. Compared to other paintings, pieces produced in oils usually show off a variety of textures across the canvas, and the paint will appear layered on. If you're looking to determine the name, age or creator of a work, try snapping a photo with your smartphone’s camera and conducting a reverse image search online. Shop a diverse assortment of oil paintings on 1stDibs.

Question 2

When was oil paint invented?

Accepted Answer

Oil paint was invented during the 7th century A.D. The earliest examples of oil paintings have been traced to Afghanistan and depict scenes related to the Buddhist religion. Records dating back to the 12th century indicate that early Christian monks in Europe used oil paints to decorate furniture, and a century later, some artists began finishing tempera paintings with touches of oil paint. It wasn't until the 15th century that oil paints became a common medium for European painters, when Flemish artists like Jan van Eyck began favoring them over tempera. Explore a variety of oil paintings on 1stDibs.

Question 3

Who is the father of oil painting?

Accepted Answer

Jan van Eyck is widely considered by art historians to be the father of oil painting. While the usage of oil paints dates back to 7th-century China, the Flemish painter popularized the material, using oils to produce highly detailed works such as The Arnolfini Portrait. The Northern Renaissance master also influenced many other artists, such as Hugo van der Goes and Gerard David. Shop an assortment of fine art on 1stDibs.

Question 4

What is abstract oil painting?

Accepted Answer

An%20abstract%20oil%20painting%20and%20an%20artwork%20that%20is%20made%20with%20oil%20paint%20on%20a%20medium%20like%20canvas%2C%20wood%20board%2C%20or%20other%20panels%20like%20canvas%20board.%20And%20the%20'abstract'%20term%20refers%20to%20the%20Movement%20%26%20Style%20of%20the%20piece.%20As%20abstraction%20indicates%20a%20departure%20from%20reality%20in%20the%20depiction%20of%20imagery%20in%20art%2C%20the%20artist%20creates%20a%20painting%20where%20the%20subject%2C%20shape%2C%20form%2C%20color%2C%20and%20line%2C%20is%20created%20with%20no%20particular%20references%20of%20the%20world%20but%20as%20a%20composition%20that%20may%20exist%20with%20a%20degree%20of%20independence%20from%20its%20vision.

Question 5

How do you maintain oil paintings?

Accepted Answer

To maintain oil paintings that you purchased for your home, experts suggest that you keep them out of direct sunlight. Prolonged exposure to the sunlight coming in from a window can fade the colors in your painting. Do not hang your oil painting near a heat source or where it can get wet (bathrooms and kitchens are not safe for your oil painting).

You may wish to dust your oil painting so that layers of dust don’t begin to gather on its surface. This should only be considered to remove loose dust. Never spray any chemical substance on your oil painting. Do not use a damp cloth to dust your oil painting. (Again, your painting should not be exposed to moisture.)

To remove loose dust, use a soft brush that measures approximately one to two inches wide with natural-hair bristles. Do not use a dust cloth or a feather duster, as those items may catch or leave threads or feathers behind. Do not apply pressure or dust your painting for an extended period of time.

If you think that your oil painting is considerably dirty or believe that other issues may be at work, experts strongly suggest that you consult with a professional conservator.

Read about how to arrange your wall art and find oil paintings for sale on 1stDibs.

Question 6

Did Dali use oil paint?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Dali did indeed use oil paint. Although he used oil paints in the traditional method, he would at times add natural resin or linseed oil to play with fluidity and texture. You can shop a selection of Salvador Dali’s pieces from some of the world’s top art dealers on 1stDibs.

Question 7

Can you use oil paint on wood?

Accepted Answer

You can use oil paint on wood as long as you prep the wood first. The first thing you should do is seal the wood with a primer. Ideally, paint two coats of sealer onto the wood so that the paint doesn't cause the wood to rot over time.

Question 8

How can you tell how old an oil painting is?

Accepted Answer

To tell how old an oil painting is, research the artist who produced it. You can use the mobile app Smartify to snap a photo of the signature on your painting and identify the artist. Read biographical information about the artist online and look at images of their work to estimate the age of your piece. Alternatively, you can get the opinion of a knowledgeable art dealer or certified appraiser. Explore a wide variety of oil paintings on 1stDibs.

Question 9

Where is the largest oil painting in the world?

Accepted Answer

The largest oil painting in the world is in the main hall of the Doge's Palace located in Venice, Italy. Its name is Il Paradiso. Tintoretto painted it around 1592, and it measures 22 meters by 7 meters. Shop a large collection of oil paintings on 1stDibs.

Question 10

Is it necessary to varnish oil paintings?

Accepted Answer

Varnishing an oil is not necessary, but it is recommended because it protects the painting and corrects surface irregularities.

Question 11

What makes an oil painting valuable?

Accepted Answer

A few things make an oil painting valuable. Age has a major impact on price, with pieces made over a century ago tending to fetch the highest prices. Who created the painting also matters. The more famous the artist, the higher the selling price for a painting is likely to be. Finally, the condition of the work and whether it is in its original frame will also impact how much it is worth. Find a diverse assortment of oil paintings on 1stDibs.

Question 12

What is the difference between a lithograph and an oil painting?

Accepted Answer

The difference between a lithograph and an oil painting comes down to uniqueness and technique. To produce an oil painting, an artist applies oil-based paints to a canvas or another surface using a brush. The process results in a single work of art. Lithography is a form of printmaking that begins by drawing on or painting on a stone surface with an oil-based substance, such as a greasy crayon or tusche, an oily wash. The stone is then covered with water, which is repelled by the oily areas. Oil-based ink is then applied to the wet stone, adhering only to the oily image. Through lithography, an artist can produce dozens, or even thousands, of copies of a single image. On 1stDibs, shop a large selection of lithographs and oil paintings.

Question 13

Does sunlight affect oil paintings?

Accepted Answer

Yes, sunlight affects oil paintings. Keep your oil paintings away from direct sunlight.

To maintain oil paintings that you purchased for your home, experts suggest that you keep them out of sunlight. Prolonged exposure to the sunlight coming in from a window can fade the colors in your painting. Do not hang your oil painting near a heat source or where it can get wet (bathrooms and kitchens are not safe for your oil painting).

You may wish to dust your oil painting so that layers of dust don’t begin to gather on its surface. This should only be considered to remove loose dust. Never spray any chemical substance on your oil painting. Do not use a damp cloth to dust your oil painting. (Again, your painting should not be exposed to moisture.)

To remove loose dust, use a soft brush that measures approximately one to two inches wide with natural-hair bristles. Do not use a dust cloth or a feather duster, as those items may catch or leave threads or feathers behind. Do not apply pressure or dust your painting for an extended period of time.

If you think that your oil painting is considerably dirty or believe that other issues may be at work, experts strongly suggest that you consult with a professional conservator.

Read about how to arrange your wall art and find oil paintings for sale on 1stDibs.

Question 14

How can I tell if an oil painting is real?

Accepted Answer

To tell if your oil painting is authentic, first check the signature of the artist to start your research. Use a magnifying glass to check the texture of the painting, and finally check the back for the painting’s original stretchers. Shop a selection of expertly vetted artwork from some of the world’s top art dealers on 1stDibs.

Question 15

How do you know if an oil painting is valuable?

Accepted Answer

Because the value of an oil painting can vary greatly based on the artist, the subject and the condition of the piece, it's generally best to work with a certified appraiser. A knowledgeable professional can evaluate the piece and estimate its value. Shop a variety of authentic oil paintings from some of the world’s top galleries on 1stDibs.

Question 16

How much are oil paintings worth?

Accepted Answer

Any%20artwork%20is%20worth%20and%20only%20worth%20the%20price%20someone%20is%20willing%20to%20pay%20for%20it%20(unfortunately%2C%20whether%20one%20can%20afford%20it%20or%20not%20is%20another%20story).%20%20Different%20people%20may%20have%20different%20reasons%20to%20attribute%20value%20to%20an%20artwork%2C%20from%20the%20purest%20(falling%20in%20love%20with%20it)%20to%20what%20is%20often%20considered%20as%20the%20most%20vile%20(speculation)%2C%20going%20through%20remembrance%2C%20pride%20of%20ownership%2C%20or%20brag%2C%20among%20other%20reasons.%0A%0AFor%20most%20living%20artists%2C%20the%20price%20of%20the%20artworks%20is%20usually%20set%20by%20the%20artist%20and%2For%20the%20gallery%20which%20represent%20him%20or%20her%2C%20by%20type%20and%20size%20of%20artwork%2C%20and%20corresponds%20to%20an%20equilibrium%20price%20between%20the%20rate%20at%20which%20artworks%20are%20sold%20and%20the%20rate%20at%20which%20new%20artworks%20are%20produced%20by%20the%20artist.%0A%0AFor%20artworks%20from%20dead%20artists%20sold%20by%20professional%20dealers%2C%20the%20price%20is%20often%20based%20on%20auctions%20results%20for%20similar%20pieces%20of%20the%20same%20artists.%0A%0AOil%20paintings%20are%20usually%20pricier%20than%20other%20techniques%20because%20it%20is%20considered%20more%20difficult%20to%20master%2C%20but%20also%20because%20oil%20paintings%20are%20known%20for%20their%20ability%20to%20last%20centuries.

Question 17

How much do oil paintings cost?

Accepted Answer

On 1stdibs, oil paintings cost between $60 and $6,200,000.

Question 18

How do I find an artist of oil paintings?

Accepted Answer

The best place to find oil paintings and discover new artists is at local art galleries. There are also many online art dealers who provide information about artists and sell their works. On 1stDibs, you’ll discover a variety of art styles from master oil painters.

Question 19

How do I find the artist of an oil painting?

Accepted Answer

To find the artist of an oil painting, look on the back of the canvas. Sometimes, you will find the artist’s name and the year of production on the back. If the canvas is in a frame, gently peel away the paper covering the back to access the canvas. In the event you cannot find any identifying information, seek the help of a licensed art appraiser. Shop a selection of oil paintings on 1stDibs.

Question 20

Do oil paintings darken over time?

Accepted Answer

Yes, oil paintings darken over time. As oil paint is made of pigment particles, the range of substances that are used as pigment in oil paint can render certain colors susceptible to aging. Slowing the aging process for an oil painting involves storing your painting properly and keeping the work out of exposed sunlight. Temperature control and humidity are also important in preserving the life of an oil painting and slowing the aging process.

To maintain oil paintings that you purchased for your home, experts suggest that you keep them out of direct sunlight. Prolonged exposure to the sunlight coming in from a window can fade the colors in your painting. Do not hang your oil painting near a heat source or where it can get wet (bathrooms and kitchens are not safe for your oil painting).

You may wish to dust your oil painting so that layers of dust don’t begin to gather on its surface. This should only be considered to remove loose dust. Never spray any chemical substance on your oil painting. Do not use a damp cloth to dust your oil painting. (Again, your painting should not be exposed to moisture.)

To remove loose dust, use a soft brush that measures approximately one to two inches wide with natural-hair bristles. Do not use a dust cloth or a feather duster, as those items may catch or leave threads or feathers behind. Do not apply pressure or dust your painting for an extended period of time.

If you think that your oil painting is considerably dirty or believe that other issues may be at work, experts strongly suggest that you consult with a professional conservator.

Read about how to arrange your wall art and find oil paintings for sale on 1stDibs.

Oil Painting Spaniels

Mid-19th Century Victorian Animal Paintings

Victorian Sporting Oil Painting Spaniel Dogs Putting up Pheasant in Landscape, 1950's

Mid-19th Century Victorian Animal Paintings

English Victorian Oil The Cavaliers Pets Period 19th Century English Oil Painting Cavalier Spaniels

1920s Old Masters Animal Paintings

William Albert ClarkWilliam Albert Clark, clumber spaniel, dog, oil painting., 1929

Late 19th Century Victorian Landscape Paintings

SPANIELS CHASING THROUGH REED BEDS - LARGE OIL PAINTING ON CANVAS, 20th Century

1910s Realist Animal Paintings

Robert MorleyPortrait of a Spaniel - British Edwardian art dog portrait oil painting, Circa 1910

Mid-20th Century English School Animal Paintings

English School20th Century Portrait of a Red Setter/ Spaniel Dog Oil Painting, 20th Century

Late 20th Century Contemporary Animal Paintings

John TrickettSpringer Spaniel in Winter, Oil 20th century, Late 20th century

Late 20th Century American Regency Paintings

Vintage Regency Original Oil Painting of Spaniel on Canvas

Late 19th Century English School Animal Paintings

'Spaniel and Sleeping Cat' , Unknown, Oil on Canvas Painting, 19th c., Unknown

Early 20th Century English School Animal Paintings

Henry PercyFine Antique British Oil Painting Head Portraits of Two Cavalier Spaniel Dogs

19th Century Victorian Animal Paintings

George Henry Laporte19th Century sporting horse portrait oil painting of a racehorse with spaniels, C1830

20th Century Unknown Paintings

Framed Oil Painting on Board of King Charles Spaniel Dog

2010s Realist Animal Paintings

Beth CarlsonTouching Oil Painting of a Sad Spaniel Gazing Through a Rain Soaked Window, 2025

Mid-20th Century Victorian Animal Paintings

Victorian Dog ArtistTerrier Puppy & Spaniel Dog in Barn Antique British Signed 19thC Oil Painting

Mid-19th Century Animal Paintings

English School Mid 19th Century Oil - King Charles Spaniels, Unknown

20th Century Animal Paintings

Framed Early 20th Century Oil - Springer Spaniels in a Landscape, Unknown

Antique 1750s Italian Paintings

European Oil On Canvas Of Two Spaniels

Antique 19th Century English Paintings

19th Century Oil Painting of Reclining Spaniels in Interior Signed by Armfield

Antique 1890s French Belle Époque Paintings

19th Century Oil Painting Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Dogs and a Cat

1850s Victorian Animal Paintings

Paul Jones b.1856'3 Terriers and a Gillie' and '3 Spaniels and a Gillie', a pair of oil paintings, 1856

Antique 1790s Paintings

Oil on canvas of a spaniel unframed c1790

Mid-20th Century American Paintings

Midcentury American Framed Oil on Board Painting of a King Charles Spaniel Dog

Early 20th Century English Other Paintings

English Oil on Canvas Depicting Trio of Spaniels

19th Century Victorian Animal Paintings

Antique English artist19th Century British Dog Painting Spaniel & Her Puppy Flagstone Floor Barn

Late 19th Century Victorian Animal Paintings

Robert CleminsonSetter Dogs/ Spaniels in Sporting Landscape Original Victorian English Dog Oil

20th Century American Classical Paintings

J.G. Clonney Signed Oil on Board Portrait Royal Dog Spaniel Painting Gold Frame

Early 20th Century French Paintings

Early 20th Century Primitive Oil on Canvas of a Spaniel

Mid-18th Century Portrait Paintings

Colonel Mellish's Spaniels, Mother & Puppies, 18th Century

Vintage 1930s American Art Deco Paintings

1930s "English Toy Spaniel" Oil on Canvas in Burl Frame

2010s Realist Animal Paintings

Beth CarlsonCharming Dog Painting, Two Springer Spaniels Sitting in a Wing Chair a Tight Fit

19th Century Old Masters Landscape Paintings

William JonesTwo spaniels working with a huntsman beyond

Antique Late 19th Century Paintings

Late 19th Century Primitive Oil on Canvas Portrait of "Dash" Clumber Spaniel

Antique 1880s Great Britain (UK) Paintings

Oil on Canvas of Lady with King Charles Cavalier Spaniel on Lap

19th Century Animal Paintings

Portrait Of A King Charles Spaniel, 19th Century English School

21st Century and Contemporary Realist Animal Paintings

Beth CarlsonDynamic sporting outdoor landscape of Springer Spaniels flushing Quail, framed, 2019

1850s Victorian Animal Paintings

George ArmfieldAntique Victorian English 19th Century, three Spaniels dogs in an Interior, circa 1860

18th Century Old Masters Landscape Paintings

John Francis SartoriusA Gentleman shooting in a landscape with a horse and spaniels

19th Century Animal Paintings

Portrait of a King Charles Spaniel, 18th Century CIRLCE OF George STUBBS

Early 19th Century Animal Paintings

Portrait Of "Honey & Napoleon", A Pair Of English Springer Spaniels, circa 1910

Antique 1890s English Victorian Paintings

English Victorian Oil
The Cavaliers Pets Period 19th Century English Oil Painting Cavalier Spaniels

William Albert Clark
William Albert Clark, clumber spaniel, dog, oil painting., 1929

Robert Morley
Portrait of a Spaniel - British Edwardian art dog portrait oil painting, Circa 1910

English School
20th Century Portrait of a Red Setter/ Spaniel Dog Oil Painting, 20th Century

John Trickett
Springer Spaniel in Winter, Oil 20th century, Late 20th century

Henry Percy
Fine Antique British Oil Painting Head Portraits of Two Cavalier Spaniel Dogs

George Henry Laporte
19th Century sporting horse portrait oil painting of a racehorse with spaniels, C1830

Beth Carlson
Touching Oil Painting of a Sad Spaniel Gazing Through a Rain Soaked Window, 2025

Victorian Dog Artist
Terrier Puppy & Spaniel Dog in Barn Antique British Signed 19thC Oil Painting

Paul Jones b.1856
'3 Terriers and a Gillie' and '3 Spaniels and a Gillie', a pair of oil paintings, 1856

Antique English artist
19th Century British Dog Painting Spaniel & Her Puppy Flagstone Floor Barn

Robert Cleminson
Setter Dogs/ Spaniels in Sporting Landscape Original Victorian English Dog Oil

Beth Carlson
Charming Dog Painting, Two Springer Spaniels Sitting in a Wing Chair a Tight Fit

William Jones
Two spaniels working with a huntsman beyond

Beth Carlson
Dynamic sporting outdoor landscape of Springer Spaniels flushing Quail, framed, 2019

George Armfield
Antique Victorian English 19th Century, three Spaniels dogs in an Interior, circa 1860

John Francis Sartorius
A Gentleman shooting in a landscape with a horse and spaniels

James Cassie
English 19th century portrait of two seated King Charles Cavalier Spaniels dogs, circa 1855

Edwin Frederick Holt
English 19th century portrait of a dog, Spaniel with game bird in a landscape, 1863

Rudolf Kosow
Best Friends I (spaniel puppy dog ear surreal scale animal boy farm earth tones, 2021

Samuel John Carter
A portrait of a black and white spaniel dog in a sumptuous interior

Charles Bilger Spalding
19th century portrait of a spaniel dog in a landscape, a country house beyond, circa 1850

Otto Weber
His Masters' Spaniels

Maud Earl
Sussex Spaniel, ca 1890

J A Wheeler
Springer Spaniel dog flushing a duck, landscape oil - signed J A Wheeler, 20th century

George Morland
A Pair of fine Oils by George Morland, Sheep and Spaniels, 18th Century