This exquisite oil on canvas by German artist, Karl Behm (1858-1905) depicts an impressive 17th-century wedding. The bride and groom lead a procession down a wooden staircase decorated with foliage. She’s attired in a sumptuous wedding dress with an elaborately embroidered collar, while he’s predominantly wearing black, a symbol of sobriety and modesty. Her mother carefully descends, aided by another hand, while the band serenades the couple with celebratory melodies.

A large group portrait of this nature is worthy of closer inspection as each figure carries its own story for you to unravel. Note the two women in the background by the window, how are they feeling? How do they know each other? A boy in red points towards the stairs, what caught his eye? Can you imagine the sound?

Karl Behm was fascinated by the 17th-century and often depicted his own renderings of the period. This particular piece is one of his masterpieces and it’s referred to in a dictionary describing the artist (Thieme-Becker). It was probably exhibited in 1889/1890.

Signed in the lower right and framed.

Learn more about Karl Behm in our directory.

Please note that this painting will need to be crated if shipped overseas. A cost for the crate will be added on during checkout.

Medium: Oil on canvas
Overall size: 46” x 40½” / 117cm x 103cm
Year of creation: c. 1889
Condition: Overall very presentable. Frame with some age-related wear.
Artist’s auction highlight: £10,747 achieved for an oil painting in 2009.