This late 19th-century Austrian oil painting depicts a dapper gentleman sporting a black suit, white shirt and blue/white striped tie. Stylistically, it resembles the hand of August Eisenmenger (1830-1907).

Here’s a fellow flourishing during a decade of prosperity and opportunity. Technology was advancing at an exponential rate, society was evolving to cater for the rise of ‘new money’, and more people than ever could afford a decent level of tailoring. As such, a host of fashions flooded the market with plenty of options for the discerning eye.

One of the more conspicuous changes was the slimming down of the male silhouette with both coats and trousers fitted closer to the figure. The gentleman here is probably wearing a formal frock coat, as one would expect for a sitting. While his moustache is the ‘piece de resistance’, carefully coiffured and somewhat handlebar.

Held in a later gilt frame.

Medium: Oil on canvas laid on board
Overall size: 21” x 25” / 53cm x 64cm
Year of creation: c. 1885
Provenance: Private collection, Europe.
Condition: Cleaned. Revarnished. Craquelure throughout. The paint layer is stable. Various old repairs including in-painting. Visible undulations due to the way the canvas was previously laid on board. Frame in excellent condition.
Our reference: BRV2051