German School - Portrait of a woman in Sunday dress

Oil on canvas
Circa 1900
Size: 104x119cm framed, 70x85cm unframed
Conditions: Light craquelure, original frame with oval cartouche (gilded and decorated inner moulding) slightly bumped

The artist of this portrait probably came from the German school (a group of artists who were part of the New Objectivity Movement and focused on portraying realism in art). The artist is an incredibly skilled portraitist and was most likely an admired artist during their lifetime.

The painting portrays an older woman seated in a chair against an umber coloured background. The artist chose a front pose that emanates an earnest gaze from the lady. She is painted in a black dress and beautiful bonnet with frills, embroidery, and a green broach, tied in a neat and large bow under her chin. The woman sits holding her reading glasses, and she displays her large, light yellow sapphire and other rings. The clothing and jewellery suggest a lady from an affluent status and perhaps a commissioned piece in her Sunday best.