Original Watercolour “A Condottiere” After Frederic Leighton – Signed Claude, Dated 1930

Original Watercolour “A Condottiere” After Frederic Leighton – Signed Claude, Dated 1930


A striking original watercolour depicting “A Condottiere”, after the famous work by Victorian master Frederic Leighton. This finely executed piece captures the strong, noble presence of a Renaissance soldier in armour, with excellent attention to detail in the metallic tones and facial expression.


Executed in 1930 and signed “Claude” to the lower corner, this is a decorative and well-composed early 20th-century interpretation of a highly regarded classical subject.


Presented in a traditional glazed frame with mount, ready to display.


Frame measures approx 45cm x 61.5cm


The term “Condottiere” refers to the leaders of mercenary armies in Renaissance Italy, particularly during the 14th–16th centuries. These soldiers of fortune were often highly skilled military commanders who fought for city-states such as Florence, Venice, and Milan under contractual agreements known as condotte.


Frederic Leighton’s interpretation of a condottiere reflects the Victorian fascination with classical history and the Italian Renaissance. Rather than portraying a specific individual, the figure represents the idealised Renaissance warrior—disciplined, authoritative, and noble in bearing. The armour, stance, and contemplative expression all emphasise strength, leadership, and honour.


Leighton, a leading figure of the British academic art movement and later President of the Royal Academy, was known for his refined, classical style and meticulous attention to historical detail. Works such as this were inspired by Italian art and culture, which greatly influenced Victorian artists.


This 1930 watercolour captures that same timeless aesthetic, making it both a decorative piece and a nod to one of the most romanticised periods in European history.