A fine early 20th-century double portrait of Mr and Mrs Scharmann by German painter, Ferdinand Leeke (1859-1923). This unusual piece depicts the couple standing side by side with Mrs Scharmann in the foreground. It’s an interesting choice of composition as generally couples elect to face the artist.

Leeke studied at the Munich Academy and is known primarily for his theatrical history paintings. He also produced a series of scenes from operas by Wagner following a commission from Wagner’s son, Siegfried. These rarely come to auction but can reach in excess of £20,000.

The portrait is signed/dated and inscribed in the lower right.

Medium: Oil on canvas
Overall size: 22½” x 30” / 57cm x 76cm
Year of creation: 1915
Provenance: Germany
Condition: Overall very presentable. Frame with some age-related wear.
Artist’s auction highlight: £54,857 achieved for a history painting at auction in 2009.