Distinguished German Portrait Paintings by Lorenz Clasen
This exceptional pair of German oil portraits by renowned artist Lorenz Clasen captures the essence of mid-19th-century German-Jewish bourgeoisie. Painted around 1850-1860, these authentic Düsseldorf School paintings depict the distinguished Bloch couple from Frankfurt am Main's prosperous Jewish merchant class.
The gentleman appears in elegant period attire - a dark three-piece suit with crisp white shirt and broad cravat. His neatly groomed beard and side-parted hairstyle reflect 1850s fashion, while his dignified pose embodies the Biedermeier tradition transitioning into early Realism.
The lady is portrayed in a sophisticated black gown with delicate lace details and center-parted hairstyle following contemporary trends. A striking red flower pinned near her heart serves as both decorative accent and symbolic reference to love, fidelity, and vitality.
These signed portraits capture a pivotal moment in German-Jewish social history, representing the emerging merchant class's prosperity and integration into German society. The formal presentation and quality execution reflect the subjects' elevated social status and artistic standards of the period.
About Lorenz Clasen (1812-1899)
Lorenz Clasen was a distinguished German history painter born in Düsseldorf. After studying at the prestigious Kunstakademie Düsseldorf under Rudolf Wiegmann, he became associated with the renowned Düsseldorf School. His work demonstrates exceptional skill in capturing both social status and personal character, particularly evident in his portraits of the German-Jewish bourgeoisie.Clasen is best known for "Germania auf der Wacht am Rhein" housed in Krefeld's town hall. His career spanned crucial decades of German history, documenting the nation's transformation and the integration of Jewish families into German society.
Investment Quality
These museum-quality German portraits represent the transition from romantic idealism to early realism in German art, combining meticulous Düsseldorf School technique with deep cultural understanding. Perfect for collectors of 19th-century European art and German cultural history.
Artist: Lorenz Clasen (1812-1899).
Signed in the lower left and right.
Medium: Oil on canvas.
Condition: Very good condition.
Dimensions: 44 x 39 cm. / 17 ¼ x 15 ½ in.
Frame: 61 x 56 cm. / 24 x 22 in. Very good condition.
Origin: Germany.
