This mid-20th-century oil on canvas by German artist Curt Rabethge (1899-1974) depicts a rural view with a deep track, birch trees and barns. Rabethge enjoyed roaming the moorland of Dachauer Moos, near Munich, and spent most of the 1930s working there.

Known as a reclusive character, his career was fairly low-key and he lived in a humble dwelling close to the moors. Those that knew him described his passion for completing a work ‘in the moment’ rather than sketching, refining, and finishing in the studio. He believed in the special qualities of capturing a fleeting feeling with immediacy.

Here we see the effects of that philosophy. A rapidly constructed daub of natural tones laid down with broad marks.

Signed lower left and framed.

Medium: Oil on canvas
Overall size: 22½” x 21” / 57cm x 53cm
Year of creation: c. 1940
Condition: Artwork presents well. Canvas a little undulant in places. Frame with some light wear.