Hermann Herzog

(b Bremen, Germany, 1831; d Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, 1932) German Painter. Hermann Herzog began his studies at the Düsseldorf Academy and later continued his training while traveling extensively throughout Europe. Herzog was able to distinguish himself from his contemporaries by depicting unique views of fjords, lakes, and mountain landscapes in his paintings.* In 1855 the artist traveled to Norway, the first of many visits, and was captivated by the Norwegian landscape. Herzog’s love of the Norwegian countryside became a constant influence throughout his career. After having achieved great success in Europe, Herzog soon learned of growing interest in his work in America and in the late 1860s, Herzog relocated to the United States and made a home for himself in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. In 1873, the artist explored Western America, traveling to locations such as Yosemite and Mexico. Painting vibrant landscapes of pastoral America, Herzog’s most successful and appreciated work was that of the American west.** While his work is often compared to pieces from the Hudson Valley River School, Herzog’s approach to landscape painting is less fantastical, for he maintains a greater sense of realism in his depictions. Hermann Ottomar Herzog continued to paint until his death at the age of 100 in 1932. (Credit: *Christie’s, New York, American Paintings, December 1, 2005, Lot 94; **Phillips, New York, American Art, December 3, 2002, Lot 32)