This mid-19th-century oil painting by German artist Heinrich Spiess (1832-1875) depicts a young lady reading a love letter.

It’s an accomplished work by an artist with a profound admiration for the old masters.

Once again, she’s returned to her jewellery box to unearth a treasured letter from an admirer. Every time surreptitiously tucking it away from prying eyes. There’s a chill of excitement as she delicately holds his words with both hands. A shudder of emerging romance, a dream unfolding. She’s not wearing a wedding ring - but for how long?

Whatever happened to love letters? Such a pleasing way of conveying one’s feelings.

Heinrich Spiess was immersed in the illustrious world of the old masters from an early age. His father, August Fred Spiess (1806-1855), was a notable draughtsman and produced numerous engravings after eminent Renaissance luminaries. They worked together on various projects. As a child, the young Heinrich would’ve been surrounded by old master prints. Here, we see a subtle nod to the Dutch masters of the 17th century, such as Johannes Vermeer (1632-1675) and Gabriël Metsu (1629-1667).

Heinrich Speiss trained at the Munich Academy. His works are held in numerous public collections including at the Bavarian National Museum in Munich.

Signed lower left and held within a Dutch-style wooden frame, probably original.

Learn more about Heinrich Spiess in our directory.

Medium: Oil on wood
Overall size: 19” x 23” / 48cm x 59cm
Year of creation: c. 1860
Condition: Artwork presents well. Craquelure but the paint is stable. Frame with some light wear.