The term “Continental School” is used to describe works produced by artists active in mainland Europe, particularly when the artist’s identity is unknown, uncertain or not fully documented. In auction catalogues, the designation is commonly applied to paintings, drawings and other works that can be associated stylistically, geographically or historically with European artistic traditions, but which cannot be securely attributed to a named artist.

Works catalogued as Continental School often reflect the influence of major European artistic centres such as France, Italy, the Netherlands, Germany, Spain or Central Europe. Depending on the period and subject matter, they may display characteristics associated with academic painting, portraiture, landscape, still life, religious imagery or genre scenes. The term therefore functions as a broad classification rather than the name of a specific artist or movement.

The attribution usually indicates that the work belongs to a European tradition outside the British School, and that its stylistic features suggest a continental origin. Such works are often valued for their decorative quality, historical interest and connection to wider European artistic culture.