This charming mid-19th-century German oil painting by J Eberhart depicts two sisters, Hannche & Maria Weichsel.

Sitting before a picturesque mountain range, the girls are attired in the latest fashion. Hannche, on the left, wears a decorous bell-shaped blue dress with lace embellishments and holds a single rose. While Maria wears dark green and clutches a handkerchief embroidered with her name. It’s likely that she’s conveying her skill for handicrafts.

The 1850s were known for demure silhouettes, which emphasised a small waist, sloped shoulders and a large voluminous skirt. The sisters are displaying their knowledge of the latest styles, while also portraying a sense of modesty and piousness.

Artistically, the attention to detail is synonymous with the approach during the ‘Biedermeier’ period. It’s a little provincial, endlessly charming, and somewhat similar to American folk art.

It’s inscribed ‘J Eberhart’ on the reverse and held within a gilt frame.

Medium: Oil on canvas
Overall size: 15” x 18” / 38cm x 46cm
Year of creation: 1857
Labels & Inscriptions: Inscribed with the sitters' details on the reverse.
Condition: Craquelure but the paint is stable following its consolidation. We've avoided relining the canvas to retain the visibility of the valuable inscription on the reserve. Frame with some light wear.