Corneille Petit, The Torn Dress, 1882, Painting is approx. 18" H x 14" W Oil on beveled mahogany panel in original frame. Signed lower left "Corneille Petit", bears label on verso certifying authenticity signed by artist. Corneille Petit was a Belgian genre painter active during the mid-to-late 19th century. He is primarily known for his detailed oil paintings depicting domestic family life, interior scenes, and everyday activities. Key Facts • Nationality: Belgian. • Active Period: 19th century, specifically the second half (circa 1850–1900). • Base of Operations: He was active in Brussels, and his work often includes the inscription "C. Petit / Bruxelles". • Style and Subject Matter: Petit specialized in genre painting, focusing on intimate interior scenes of mothers, children, and families. His works are characterized by a detailed, realistic style typical of 19th-century Belgian art. • Notable Artworks: His paintings frequently appear in major auction houses such as Christie’s and MutualArt. Notable titles include: Return from the Market, Interior with Mother and Child with a Walking Frame, Les Crêpes (The Pancakes), Teasing the Dog, Le Chapeau à Dimanche (The Sunday Hat)