Julius Friedlænder, Portrait Of A Gentleman

Julius Friedlænder, Portrait Of A Gentleman

This sublime early-19th-century portrait by Julius Friedlænder (1810-1861) depicts a stylish young gentleman wearing a white shirt, waistcoat, and black jacket. He’s brimming with life, eyes alive and characterful - yet relaxed and open, with left hand casually resting on the chair.

In 1834, when Friedlænder completed this portrait, he was just 24 years old but already a multiple award-winner at the Royal Danish Academy.

As such, his time was highly valued by the rising middle-class of Denmark and later by the Royal Family. His subject possess a poignant sense of ‘joie de vivre’ - they’re elevated above the statuesque. Note the smile here and the glint in the eye - this was a man with personality. The tight waistcoat buttons are also a curious addition, they add to the narrative and suggest contentment.

It’s a splendid portrayal by an artist thoroughly enjoying his work.

Signed, dated and housed within a 19th-century gilt frame.

Learn more about Julius Friedlænder in our directory.

Medium: Oil on canvas
Overall size: 21½” x 25” / 55cm x 64cm
Year of creation: 1834
Condition: Artwork presents well. Canvas relined. Frame with some light wear.
Artist’s auction highlight: £25,000 achieved for an oil painting in 1998.

Conservation & History

We care profoundly about our role as custodians and every piece in the collection has been assessed by our conservator. When required, we undertake professional restoration carefully using reversible techniques and adopt a light touch to retain the aged charm of each work. We also restore frames rather than replace them as many are original and selected by the artists themselves.

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