This late 19th-century bust-length portrait study by German artist Ernst Theodor Krause (1868-1945) depicts a woman in black.
Krause was an exquisite draughtsman with an advanced ability for figures. Training at two first-class academies, his masterly handling renders a subject’s unique characteristics with finesse while also communicating their spirit.
Here, in this rare oil painting from around 1890, he works with vigour and dexterity. Each mark confidently applied and refined. Note the alterations to the hairline, still visible in dark grey.
Only a handful of works by Krause remain as he became a conservator early in life. Focusing his skills on the extensive Old Master collection at the Staatliche Gemäldegalerie in Dresden.
Signed/dated lower left and framed.
Medium: Oil on canvas
Overall size: 17” x 22” / 43cm x 56cm
Year of creation: c. 1890
Condition: Artwork presents well. Later stretcher. Canvas relined. Fine craquelure but the paint is stable. Frame with some light wear.
Artist’s auction maximum: £2,500
Ernst Theodor Krause trained at the Dresden Academy under Ferdinand Pauwels, Leon Pohle and Friedrich Preller the Younger. Later at the Weimar art school under Max Thedy.
Learn more about Ernst Theodor Krause in our directory.
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 often restore frames rather than replace them as many are original and selected by the artists themselves.
