Karl Heffner

Panoramic Riverscape With Cattle & Figures

Karl Heffner

Panoramic Riverscape With Cattle & Figures

This beautiful late 19th-century oil painting by German artist Karl Heffner (1849-1925) depicts a broad river scene at low tide.

A shimmering near-white glow extends beyond the horizon where the illuminated river meets the tint of the sky. The majority of the composition is light, born from a golden sliver disappearing behind trees. At low tide, the villagers flock with nets, catching supper within shallow waters. While cattle amble between mudbanks, zigzagging into a blur.

Heffner preferred the colder months - long autumnal shadows, damp riverbanks, flooded wetlands. He was unconventional and moved to England for its transient weather. Predominantly unknown back in Germany, he made a mark in British galleries, with Benjamin Williams Leader (1831-1923) a keen admirer.

Signed lower right and held within a later frame.

Medium: Oil on canvas
Overall size: 43” x 20” / 109cm x 51cm
Year of creation: c. 1880
Labels & Inscriptions: Aitken Dott & Son, Edinburgh, gallery label.
Condition: Artwork presents well. Fine craquelure but the paint is stable. Frame with some light wear. Professionally restored.
Artist’s auction maximum: £20,777

Karl Heffner

Karl Heffner

Karl Heffner was a well-regarded German landscape painter in oils and watercolours. He trained in Munich under Adolf Stademann and Adolf Heinrich Lier. His works are held in numerous public collections including at the V&A in London.

Learn more about Karl Heffner in our directory.

About Brave

Each piece in the collection has been assessed by our experienced team, which includes a conservation specialist, so you can be assured of its condition. We also work with national museums and care profoundly about our role as custodians. Over the years we've received hundreds of five star reviews from our customers and we're committed to delivering a premier service. We're always here when you need us.

Stay In Touch
Subscribe to our Wednesday newsletter for the latest finds and 10% off your order.

Availability