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

Who is the artist associated with Urban Realism and American Scene painting?

Accepted Answer

The artist associated with Urban Realism and American Scene painting is Edward Hopper. Throughout the early 20th century, he created paintings of New York City that captured the feelings of isolation associated with urban life. His best-known works include Nighthawks, Automat, Chop Suey and Office at Night. On 1stDibs, shop a collection of Edward Hopper art.

Question 7

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 8

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 9

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 10

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 11

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 12

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 13

How much do oil paintings cost?

Accepted Answer

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

Question 14

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 15

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 16

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 17

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 18

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 19

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 20

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.

Urban Oil Painting

1960s Contemporary Figurative Paintings

Sirio PellegriniUrban Landscape - Paint by Sirio Pellegrini - 1960s, 1960s

21st Century and Contemporary Contemporary Landscape Paintings

Katherine KeanRain Dots 2, contemporary urban landscape, 2018

2010s Contemporary Landscape Paintings

Alexandra PaculaDIGITAL - Contemporary Tokyo Cityscape / Urban Lights / Realism, 2019

2010s Impressionist Figurative Paintings

Jim Beckner"Eastside, " Urban Night Scene by Jim Beckner, 2023

2010s Contemporary Landscape Paintings

Zion Mor"Mystery" - Minimalist Contemporary Geometric Urban-Inspired Abstract Landscape, 2021

2010s American Realist Paintings

Gregory FruxSixth Avenue St. John, realistic urban architecture and street scene, 2017

21st Century and Contemporary Impressionist Interior Paintings

Yangzi XuWacker Drive in the Rain, Oil Painting, 2022

2010s Impressionist Figurative Paintings

Jim Beckner"Sidewak Lights, " Urban Night Scene by Jim Beckner, 2023

2010s Impressionist Figurative Paintings

Jim Beckner"Night Out, " Urban Night Scene by Jim Beckner, 2023

2010s Impressionist Figurative Paintings

Jim Beckner"Bright Lights, " Urban Night Scene by Jim Beckner, 2023

2010s Abstract Abstract Paintings

Pierre Morquin"Urbanity"abstract acrylic on canvas 162x130cm 2019, 2019

Mid-20th Century Impressionist Landscape Paintings

Anthony Klitz"The Pump Room Cheltenham Spa", Urban Impressionist Scene

2010s Impressionist Figurative Paintings

Jim Beckner"Intersection, " Abstracted Urban Night Scene by Jim Beckner, 2023

21st Century and Contemporary Contemporary Figurative Paintings

SOPHIE DUMONTUrban Harmony, Blue Abstract, Large French artist, Expressionism, Contemporary, 2024

21st Century and Contemporary Contemporary Figurative Paintings

Warren KeatingTaking Her Arm in Paris, Oil Painting, 2019

21st Century and Contemporary American Realist Interior Paintings

Nick SavidesHigh Line a Emerging Spring, Oil Painting, 2022

1970s Modern Landscape Paintings

Nazareno GattamenataUrban Landscape - Original Artwork by Nazareno Gattamelata - 1970s, 1970s

2010s Expressionist Paintings

Stephen BassoDogwalker ... humans and animals urban setting humor strong design and color, 2020

2010s Abstract Paintings

Ihar Barkhatkou Belorussian Contemporary Art by Ihar Barkhatkou - Urban Portrait, 2021

2010s Cubist Abstract Paintings

Perrine HonoréRefreshing Gradient, Green and Orange Urban Landscape, Geometric Architecture, 2024

21st Century and Contemporary Impressionist Landscape Paintings

Pep Suari"Congress Avenue" Austin, Texas Urban Cityscape Street Scene

1950s Landscape Paintings

G. NosdiniG Nosdini urban landscape with bare trees, and foreground

2010s American Realist Landscape Paintings

Gregory FruxAmerica 2017, New York, urban architecture, subtle color, 2017

1950s Expressionist Landscape Paintings

Coit Tower, San Francisco - Mid Century Urban Landscape

1920s American Impressionist Figurative Paintings

Arthur Clifton Goodwin"Boston Square" Arthur Clifton Goodwin, Impressionist Boston Urban Landscape, circa 1920s

2010s Contemporary Figurative Paintings

Golfam JozdaniShadows of Peace XIV (Aliens, Surreal, Expressionism, Urban, ~35% OFF), 2025

2010s Abstract Abstract Paintings

Kobi Raz"Urban Desert" - Contemporary Colorful Textured Desert Abstract in Earth Tones, 2020

1990s Abstract Expressionist Abstract Paintings

Michael William EgglestonThree Trees - Urban Abstract Composition in Acrylic, 1999

2010s Contemporary Figurative Paintings

Golfam JozdaniShadows of Peace III (Aliens, Surreal, Expressionism, Urban, ~35% OFF), 2025

2010s Contemporary Abstract Paintings

Natalia RomanRed Lipstick Curves, Organic Brushstrokes Gestures, Urban Style on Paper, 2022

2010s Academic Landscape Paintings

Gregory FruxTwo Arches, Prospect Park Brooklyn, sunlight architectural urban landscape, 2016

2010s American Realist Landscape Paintings

Gregory FruxEnd of Brownstone, urban street scene Brooklyn, bright colors, 2013

2010s American Realist Landscape Paintings

Gregory FruxMansard Window, realistic historic urban architecture, Brookyn cityscape, brick, 2015

Mid-20th Century American Impressionist Landscape Paintings

Virginia BlightMid Century Urban Landscape San Francisco Golden Gate Park, circa 1960

2010s American Realist Landscape Paintings

Gregory FruxRealm of Flora, realistic urban architecture detail New York, 2018

21st Century and Contemporary Realist Landscape Paintings

John DuffinLondon Panorama - Greenwich Shoreline, cityscape art, urban art, Thames art, 2021

2010s Minimalist Landscape Paintings

Zion Mor"Urban Cityscape" - Modern Minimal Abstract Landscape Artwork in White and Black, 2021

2010s Contemporary Landscape Paintings

Angela WakefieldDeansgate Manchester City Urban Night Scene by Contemporary Britain Artist, 2011

2010s American Realist Landscape Paintings

Gregory FruxTwo Stories, historic urban architecture, cityscape, orange and red brick, 2019

20th Century Impressionist Landscape Paintings

Sirio Pellegrini
Urban Landscape - Paint by Sirio Pellegrini - 1960s, 1960s

Katherine Kean
Rain Dots 2, contemporary urban landscape, 2018

Alexandra Pacula
DIGITAL - Contemporary Tokyo Cityscape / Urban Lights / Realism, 2019

Jim Beckner
"Eastside, " Urban Night Scene by Jim Beckner, 2023

Zion Mor
"Mystery" - Minimalist Contemporary Geometric Urban-Inspired Abstract Landscape, 2021

Gregory Frux
Sixth Avenue St. John, realistic urban architecture and street scene, 2017

Yangzi Xu
Wacker Drive in the Rain, Oil Painting, 2022

Jim Beckner
"Sidewak Lights, " Urban Night Scene by Jim Beckner, 2023

Jim Beckner
"Night Out, " Urban Night Scene by Jim Beckner, 2023

Jim Beckner
"Bright Lights, " Urban Night Scene by Jim Beckner, 2023

Pierre Morquin
"Urbanity"abstract acrylic on canvas 162x130cm 2019, 2019

Anthony Klitz
"The Pump Room Cheltenham Spa", Urban Impressionist Scene

Jim Beckner
"Intersection, " Abstracted Urban Night Scene by Jim Beckner, 2023

SOPHIE DUMONT
Urban Harmony, Blue Abstract, Large French artist, Expressionism, Contemporary, 2024

Warren Keating
Taking Her Arm in Paris, Oil Painting, 2019

Nick Savides
High Line a Emerging Spring, Oil Painting, 2022

Nazareno Gattamenata
Urban Landscape - Original Artwork by Nazareno Gattamelata - 1970s, 1970s

Stephen Basso
Dogwalker ... humans and animals urban setting humor strong design and color, 2020

Ihar Barkhatkou
Belorussian Contemporary Art by Ihar Barkhatkou - Urban Portrait, 2021

Perrine Honoré
Refreshing Gradient, Green and Orange Urban Landscape, Geometric Architecture, 2024

Pep Suari
"Congress Avenue" Austin, Texas Urban Cityscape Street Scene

G. Nosdini
G Nosdini urban landscape with bare trees, and foreground

Gregory Frux
America 2017, New York, urban architecture, subtle color, 2017

Arthur Clifton Goodwin
"Boston Square" Arthur Clifton Goodwin, Impressionist Boston Urban Landscape, circa 1920s

Golfam Jozdani
Shadows of Peace XIV (Aliens, Surreal, Expressionism, Urban, ~35% OFF), 2025

Kobi Raz
"Urban Desert" - Contemporary Colorful Textured Desert Abstract in Earth Tones, 2020

Michael William Eggleston
Three Trees - Urban Abstract Composition in Acrylic, 1999

Golfam Jozdani
Shadows of Peace III (Aliens, Surreal, Expressionism, Urban, ~35% OFF), 2025

Natalia Roman
Red Lipstick Curves, Organic Brushstrokes Gestures, Urban Style on Paper, 2022

Gregory Frux
Two Arches, Prospect Park Brooklyn, sunlight architectural urban landscape, 2016

Gregory Frux
End of Brownstone, urban street scene Brooklyn, bright colors, 2013

Gregory Frux
Mansard Window, realistic historic urban architecture, Brookyn cityscape, brick, 2015

Virginia Blight
Mid Century Urban Landscape San Francisco Golden Gate Park, circa 1960

Gregory Frux
Realm of Flora, realistic urban architecture detail New York, 2018

John Duffin
London Panorama - Greenwich Shoreline, cityscape art, urban art, Thames art, 2021

Zion Mor
"Urban Cityscape" - Modern Minimal Abstract Landscape Artwork in White and Black, 2021

Angela Wakefield
Deansgate Manchester City Urban Night Scene by Contemporary Britain Artist, 2011

Gregory Frux
Two Stories, historic urban architecture, cityscape, orange and red brick, 2019

Fanch Lel
French Impressionist Moody Village Street Leading to a Tower Urban Landscpae

Fanch Lel
French Impressionist Urban Scene of Bustling Café Terrace in Saint-Malo, 2002

Purvis Young
"Cars, Buildings People" Contemporary Outsider Folk Art African American Urban, c. 1990s

Perrine Honoré
Day Dreamer, Urban Cubist Style, Colorful Composition, Abstract Pink and Yellow, 2025

Perrine Honoré
Let it Out, Abstract Expressionist Diptych in Orange, Urban Style Gestures, 2024

Natalia Roman
Urban Brushstrokes on Baby Blue, Funky Style, Rend and Yellow Gestures Diptych, 2022

John Lawrence
"View of a London street". Post-Impressionist classical urban scene.

Karen Lynn
Multiple windows, architectural art, original art, affordable art, urban art

Susan Washington
Subway Sonnet #148 - Urban Mixed Media Abstract Expressionism Floral Artwork, 2025

Harry McCormick
"10th Avenue, Meatpacking District" Harry McCormick, New York City Urban Scene, circa 1970s

Margaretha E. Albers
"The Ordell, Brooklyn Bridge" Margaretha E. Albers, New York Urban Cityscape, 1930s

Eleanor Perry
Kansas City Cityscape, Mid Century Modern Primary Colors Urban Landscape, 1969

Stephen Basso
The Budding Artist urban narrative muted blue colors subway scene, 2020

Milan Kouba
A Compelling Post War Chicago Subway Scene by Urban Realist, Artist Milan Kouba, 1976

Marc Zimmerman
Village in Magenta - Landscape Painting - Oil On Canvas by Marc Zimmerman, 2023

Lilya Volskaya
"Night city. The way home" modern urban landscape of the Volskya Lilya., 2024

Ryan Rivadeneyra
Fresh Imbalance, Pastel Tones Abstract Render Totem, Urban Gems, Soft Blue, Pink, 2024

Joan Breckwoldt
New York City Taxi Urban Landscape Wall Street Contemporary Art Movement, 2019