This charming mid-19th-century oil painting by Austrian artist Johann Paul Eisenmeyer (act.1820-1846) depicts a gentleman wearing a black coat, white shirt and black bowtie.
Eisenmeyer was an accomplished painter of portraits, religious works, and figures. Working during the Biedermeier period, his ability to capture a likeness was in high demand.
Following the end of the Napoleonic Wars and the Congress of Vienna, central European politics shifted towards calmer motivations. The mood was decidedly less divisive, focused on stability and wealth creation. This, coupled with increasing industrialisation, led to the rise of ‘new money’ - the middle classes were in full swing.
Life was relatively chipper for these newly emerging affluent homeowners and interior decoration became high on the agenda, along with presenting an image of moderation, modesty and contentment. Portraits were integral to the home, particularly as the aristocratic ‘old money’ had walls adorned with them.
Artists flourished, producing detailed scenes to celebrate family values and meticulous portraiture. Each sitter was rendered akin to a miniature, agonised over. Expression was frowned upon, as these new patrons sought to convey permanence rather than fleeting emotions.
In 1820, Eisenmeyer was commissioned to produce four Royal portraits for the House of Liechtenstein, which are currently in the collection of The Princely House of Liechtenstein, Vienna.
Signed/dated middle right and held within a splendid gilt frame with ornate floral ornaments, which is probably original.
Learn more about Johann Paul Eisenmeyer in our directory.
Medium: Oil on canvas
Overall size: 25” x 30½” / 64cm x 78cm
Year of creation: 1843
Labels & Inscriptions: Inscribed with the artist’s name on reverse.
Provenance: Private collection, Germany.
Condition: Assessed and approved by our conservator. Cleaned. Revarnished. Canvas relined. Fine and settled craquelure, as you would expect. The paint layer is stable. Frame restored.
Artist’s auction maximum: £2,398
Our reference: BRV1730
