Question 1

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 2

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 3

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 4

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 5

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 6

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 7

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 8

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.

Question 9

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 10

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 11

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 12

How much do oil paintings cost?

Accepted Answer

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

Question 13

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 14

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 15

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 16

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 17

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 18

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 19

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 20

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.

Surreal Oil Painting

2010s Contemporary Interior Paintings

Jason StoutHIGHBALL LETTER VICE - Cubist, Surreal Still Life with Bold Colors, Orange, 2020

2010s Contemporary Interior Paintings

Jason StoutEVERYTHING IN ITS RIGHT PLACE - Cubist, Bright Bold Surreal Still Life, 2020

1990s Contemporary Abstract Drawings and Watercolors

Reginald K. Gee"Relentless - Face Off, " Abstract Surreal Oil Pastel signed by Reginald K. Gee, 1994

2010s Contemporary Abstract Paintings

Rachelle KriegerLockdown Landscape II, bright green and brown abstract plants, surreal scene, 2019

2010s Contemporary Abstract Paintings

Rachelle KriegerLockdown Landscape III, bright green and brown abstract plants, surreal scene, 2019

Early 2000s Contemporary Figurative Paintings

Michael Pauker"Sui Generis Redux" Contemporary Large-Scale Surreal Figurative Abstract w Face, 2008

Early 2000s Contemporary Figurative Paintings

Michael Pauker"A Disturbance in the Force" Contemporary Large-Scale Surreal Figural Abstract, 2007

21st Century and Contemporary Contemporary Figurative Paintings

Michael PaukerArtist s Dream VIII - Waking Up, Contemporary Surreal Self-Portrait on Beach, c.2000s

Early 2000s Contemporary Figurative Paintings

Michael PaukerNudes on the Beach, Contemporary Surreal Figurative Abstract with Self-Portrait, 2009

2010s Surrealist Figurative Paintings

Tiffany BociekA Surreal Encaustic on Wood "I Dreamed of a Great Escape", 2022

2010s Contemporary Interior Paintings

Jason StoutAS ABOVE SO BELOW - Cubist, Surreal Still Life with Bold Colors, 2020

20th Century Mid-Century Modern Paintings

Ron Fritts (Am., NY, 20th C.) Signed Surreal Oil On Canvas, "Lady With Folded Ha

2010s Realist Landscape Paintings

David R. A. Watson Bixby Bridge, Big Surreal #1 , Santa Cruz, Big Sur, California Hwy 1, Carmel, 2023

21st Century and Contemporary Contemporary Landscape Paintings

Mark BowersTrue North - Brief, Surreal Landscape w/ Orange and Blue Sky, Scattered Clouds, 2020

2010s Abstract Expressionist Animal Paintings

Shizico YiOriginal-Blue Cat-Gold Leaf- British Awarded Artist-surreal-expression-abstract, 2023

21st Century and Contemporary Contemporary Figurative Paintings

Benjamin DukeLost in Dinard, Surreal Architectural Landscape with Two Figures by Ben Duke, 2018

1990s Neo-Expressionist Figurative Drawings and Watercolors

Reginald K. GeeSHOULD I STAY IN or GO OUT? Signed Oil Pastel, Seated Man, Surreal Interior, 1997

2010s Surrealist Figurative Paintings

Brian SanchezAutomation of an Angel II Hyperrealism Mixed Media Surreal Modern Cuban Art, 2023

2010s Contemporary Interior Paintings

Jason StoutPEACHY KEEN FLAMING JACK STILL LIFE - Cubist, Bright Bold Surreal Night Stand, 2020

1990s Neo-Expressionist Figurative Drawings and Watercolors

Reginald K. GeeHIS NEW DEN Signed Oil Pastel on Grocery Bag, Man with Vacuum Cleaner, Surreal, 1997

2010s Contemporary Figurative Paintings

Michele MikesellThe Leanan Sidhe (LAN-an she) - Abstract Surreal Girl with Blue Sky and Clouds, 2025

21st Century and Contemporary Still-life Paintings

Anna Wypych"Blooming Eyes 2" (2022) by Anna Wypych, Surreal Still Life, 2022

21st Century and Contemporary Still-life Paintings

Anna Wypych"Blooming Eyes 1" (2022) by Anna Wypych, Surreal Still Life, 2022

2010s Impressionist Landscape Paintings

Alexandra CzierpkaFlowing Path to the Evening, Surreal Landscape in Purple and Blue on Paper, 2024, 2024

2010s Surrealist Animal Paintings

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

1960s Surrealist Landscape Paintings

Surreal Dreamscape of a Broken Eggshell Floating on High, in Cerulean and Cream, 1964

2010s American Modern Animal Paintings

Marc ZimmermanStriped Cat In Wonderland - Animal Paintings - Oil on Canvas By Marc Zimmerman, 2022

1960s Surrealist Abstract Paintings

Kennard M Harris"Nightgale" Surreal Still Life in a Blue Landscape style of Yves Tanguy and Dali, 1962

1980s Surrealist Animal Paintings

Stephen BassoTrojan Cat surreal dreamlike image of small boy inside a large black cat, 1988

21st Century and Contemporary Contemporary Landscape Paintings

René Monzón Relova “Pozas”Las Vacaciones de Jose, Surreal Landscape of Rocky Islands off a Sea Coast, 2017

2010s Contemporary Interior Paintings

Jason StoutNIGHT TABLE OF THE ASSASSISN - Cubist, Surreal Still Life w/ Bold Colors, Knife, 2020

2010s Contemporary Interior Paintings

Jason Stout45 OLé COLLAPSE- Cubist, Surreal Still Life with Bold Colors, Beer Can, Orange, 2020

1960s American Modern Animal Paintings

Clarence Holbrook CarterOver and Above: No. 6, Surreal Cat w/ Fish Bones, 20th Century Cleveland School, 1963

2010s Surrealist Mixed Media

Philip KuznickiSurreal Contemporary Figurative Mixed-Media Oil Painting American, 2018

2010s Contemporary Abstract Drawings and Watercolors

Shamona StokesLightning My Load (2020), surreal abstract dream-like landscape, skyscape, blue, 2020

21st Century and Contemporary Impressionist Landscape Paintings

Rene Jerome LegrandContemporary Impressionist Oil Landscape Nocturne Ludlow Castle and Shropshire, 2022

2010s Contemporary Landscape Paintings

Fabricio SuarezInvoking Medusa (2021), oil on linen, landscape, skyscape, flowers, garden, 2021

1970s Surrealist Abstract Paintings

Yavgeni Abeshaus Antique Israeli Surrealist "Bubbles and Birds" Signed Winter Landscape Painting, 1979

2010s Contemporary Landscape Paintings

Fabricio SuarezOld Gods Almost Dead (2021), oil on linen, waterscape, skyscape, sunflowers, 2021

2010s Contemporary Portrait Paintings

Jason Stout
HIGHBALL LETTER VICE - Cubist, Surreal Still Life with Bold Colors, Orange, 2020

Jason Stout
EVERYTHING IN ITS RIGHT PLACE - Cubist, Bright Bold Surreal Still Life, 2020

Reginald K. Gee
"Relentless - Face Off, " Abstract Surreal Oil Pastel signed by Reginald K. Gee, 1994

Rachelle Krieger
Lockdown Landscape II, bright green and brown abstract plants, surreal scene, 2019

Rachelle Krieger
Lockdown Landscape III, bright green and brown abstract plants, surreal scene, 2019

Michael Pauker
"Sui Generis Redux" Contemporary Large-Scale Surreal Figurative Abstract w Face, 2008

Michael Pauker
"A Disturbance in the Force" Contemporary Large-Scale Surreal Figural Abstract, 2007

Michael Pauker
Artist s Dream VIII - Waking Up, Contemporary Surreal Self-Portrait on Beach, c.2000s

Michael Pauker
Nudes on the Beach, Contemporary Surreal Figurative Abstract with Self-Portrait, 2009

Tiffany Bociek
A Surreal Encaustic on Wood "I Dreamed of a Great Escape", 2022

Jason Stout
AS ABOVE SO BELOW - Cubist, Surreal Still Life with Bold Colors, 2020

David R. A. Watson
Bixby Bridge, Big Surreal #1 , Santa Cruz, Big Sur, California Hwy 1, Carmel, 2023

Mark Bowers
True North - Brief, Surreal Landscape w/ Orange and Blue Sky, Scattered Clouds, 2020

Shizico Yi
Original-Blue Cat-Gold Leaf- British Awarded Artist-surreal-expression-abstract, 2023

Benjamin Duke
Lost in Dinard, Surreal Architectural Landscape with Two Figures by Ben Duke, 2018

Reginald K. Gee
SHOULD I STAY IN or GO OUT? Signed Oil Pastel, Seated Man, Surreal Interior, 1997

Brian Sanchez
Automation of an Angel II Hyperrealism Mixed Media Surreal Modern Cuban Art, 2023

Jason Stout
PEACHY KEEN FLAMING JACK STILL LIFE - Cubist, Bright Bold Surreal Night Stand, 2020

Reginald K. Gee
HIS NEW DEN Signed Oil Pastel on Grocery Bag, Man with Vacuum Cleaner, Surreal, 1997

Michele Mikesell
The Leanan Sidhe (LAN-an she) - Abstract Surreal Girl with Blue Sky and Clouds, 2025

Anna Wypych
"Blooming Eyes 2" (2022) by Anna Wypych, Surreal Still Life, 2022

Anna Wypych
"Blooming Eyes 1" (2022) by Anna Wypych, Surreal Still Life, 2022

Alexandra Czierpka
Flowing Path to the Evening, Surreal Landscape in Purple and Blue on Paper, 2024, 2024

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

Marc Zimmerman
Striped Cat In Wonderland - Animal Paintings - Oil on Canvas By Marc Zimmerman, 2022

Kennard M Harris
"Nightgale" Surreal Still Life in a Blue Landscape style of Yves Tanguy and Dali, 1962

Stephen Basso
Trojan Cat surreal dreamlike image of small boy inside a large black cat, 1988

René Monzón Relova “Pozas”
Las Vacaciones de Jose, Surreal Landscape of Rocky Islands off a Sea Coast, 2017

Jason Stout
NIGHT TABLE OF THE ASSASSISN - Cubist, Surreal Still Life w/ Bold Colors, Knife, 2020

Jason Stout
45 OLé COLLAPSE- Cubist, Surreal Still Life with Bold Colors, Beer Can, Orange, 2020

Clarence Holbrook Carter
Over and Above: No. 6, Surreal Cat w/ Fish Bones, 20th Century Cleveland School, 1963

Philip Kuznicki
Surreal Contemporary Figurative Mixed-Media Oil Painting American, 2018

Shamona Stokes
Lightning My Load (2020), surreal abstract dream-like landscape, skyscape, blue, 2020

Rene Jerome Legrand
Contemporary Impressionist Oil Landscape Nocturne Ludlow Castle and Shropshire, 2022

Fabricio Suarez
Invoking Medusa (2021), oil on linen, landscape, skyscape, flowers, garden, 2021

Yavgeni Abeshaus
Antique Israeli Surrealist "Bubbles and Birds" Signed Winter Landscape Painting, 1979

Fabricio Suarez
Old Gods Almost Dead (2021), oil on linen, waterscape, skyscape, sunflowers, 2021

Inés Silvalde
"An Afternoon in the Gorse". Oil on Framed Canvas, Figurative Surrealism Paint, 2020

Fabricio Suarez
Flora Carnivora (2021), oil on linen, dark landscape, flowers, garden, night, 2021

Fabricio Suarez
What Lies Beneath (2021), oil on linen, dark landscape, flowers, garden, night, 2021

Fabricio Suarez
Fox Hunt (2021), oil on canvas, dark landscape, flowers, garden, floral, night, 2021

Ruth Gikow
Modernist Beach Scene Painting, Playing Ball in Surf, WPA Jewish Woman Artist, c.1950s

Thomas Broadbent
The Catch, 2025

Rudolf Kosow
Incident II (horse leg hoof equestrian man surrealistic animal tennis brown art), 2025

Rachel Srinivasan
Cuddly Bison: Two of Swords, Oil Painting, 2021

Christopher Klein
Wisdom Trumps Violence - Surreal Oil Painting with a Leopard, an Owl, and a Man, 2018

Chikako Okada
Lovers / oil on wood - twin sisters conjoined surreal two heads, 2018

Ellen Steinfeld
Puppet With the Green Eyes Contemporary Surrealist Painting Ellen Steinfeld, c. 1980

Ellen Steinfeld
Contemporary Painting "Choose " by Ellen Steinfeld, c. 1980

Daniel Bohman
"Glass Ceiling" - Surreal Oil Painting, 2015

Daniel Bohman
"Twin Peaks" - Surreal Oil Painting

Lorser Feitelson
Magical Forms, abstract Post-Surreal oil painting of figures morphing to forms, 1945

Daniel Bohman
"A Conversation About Insentience" - Surreal Oil Painting, 2015

Peter Aspell
The Moroccan Bride, Contemporary, Abstract, Surreal Oil Painting, 1997