"Gaudemus Igitur", 1896. Late 19th century Oil Painting by Andrew Pattle Izett, New Zealand.

Late 19th century oil painting by Andrew Pattle Izett. 

Andrew Pattle Izett (1869-1951) was born in Australia and moved to New Zealand some time in the 19th century. Little is known about this artist but a catalogue of the 17th annual exhibition in March 1897 of the Canterbury Society of Arts in Christchurch lists him as a working member of the art society. 
This particular piece is titled Gaudemus Igitur and is dated 1896. Gaudemus Igitur, which Is loosely translated from Latin to mean "So Let Us Rejoice", is the colloquial title for "De Brevitate Vitae" (on the shortness of life), a popular academic hymn sung during university graduations.

Very much in the tradition of carpe diem, this jocular fellow depicted seems to be a harlequin figure, possibly a contemporary of Izett dressed in a jester costume. Cradling a rooster in his arms, it is in a darkly comedic style. Perfect for collectors of the unusual, eclectic and above all interesting. 

Medium: Oil on canvasboard
Details: Signed by artist in lower right corner, titled in upper right.

Measurements: 

55 x 44.5 cm Frame: 64 x 54 cm

Condition: Good antique condition. Later frame. Could use a clean, does have some rubbing and losses to surface. Still good for display.

References:

https://christchurchartgallery.org.nz/media/uploads/2010_08/CSA_Catalogue_1897.pdf