Hugo Wolfgang Rheinhold Paintings & Artwork for Sale | Hugo Wolfgang Rheinhold Art Value Price Guide

May. 27, 2026
HUGO RHEINHOLD (Germany, 1852-1900) "The philosopher monkey". Patinated bronze on marble base. Signed. The original model was exhibited at the Great Art Exhibition in Berlin in 1893.
Est: €5,000 - €5,500
HUGO RHEINHOLD (Germany, 1852-1900) "The philosopher monkey". Patinated bronze on marble base. Signed. The original model was exhibited at the Great Art Exhibition in Berlin in 1893. Measurements: 33 x 22 x 22 cm. Also known as "Ape with Skull", this famous composition by Hugo Rheinhold is inscribed in the intellectual context of the end of the 19th century, marked by the impact of Charles Darwin's evolutionary theories. The work presents an ape in a reflective attitude holding a skull, in a clear allusion to the iconographic model of Shakespeare's Hamlet, reinterpreted here from a scientific and philosophical perspective. The piece articulates a symbolic discourse around the human condition, knowledge and the origin of man, reinforced by the presence of the book dedicated to Darwin and the inscription "Eritis sicut Deus", evoking the desire to know. Its balance between irony, erudition and formal clarity has made it one of the most iconic images of nineteenth-century scientific sculpture. It is worth noting the relevance of its size, considerable within this model, since many of the versions preserved in the market correspond to small format reductions (between 10 and 15 cm), which gives this specimen a greater presence and attractiveness for collecting. Hugo Rheinhold was a German sculptor trained at the Berlin Academy after a first stage dedicated to international trade. His production, brief but significant, is characterized by the integration of scientific and philosophical concerns in sculptural language. His works include compositions of symbolic and social character, being Affe mit Schädel his most widespread and representative creation.
Setdart Auction House
Apr. 13, 2026
HUGO WOLFGANG RHEINHOLD (1852–19
Est: -
Hugo Wolfgang Rheinhold (1852–1900), Chimpanzee thoughtfully contemplating a human skull, an older cast of the famous sculpture critical of evolutionary theory, inscribed on a book with “Eritis sicut deus” and “Darwin,” patinated bronze, signed on the base, slightly soiled, H. 17 cm
Historia Auctionata
Mar. 21, 2026
Wolfgang Hugo Rheinhold
Est: €3,800 - €4,800
Wolfgang Hugo Rheinhold 1853 Oberlahnstein - 1900 Berlin - 'Monkey with Skull' - (The origin of the species) - Bronze. Brown patina. Cream-white patina on the skull. Red marble plinth. H. w./w. plinth. 17/19 cm. Signed on the base: Rheinhold. Foundry mark: Aktien-Gesell. vorm. H. Gladenbeck & Sohn. Ber(lin). - Provenance: In the artist's family possession since its creation. - Lit.: Berman III, p.731. The 'Monkey with Skull' is Rheinhold's best-known work. He created it in 1892. It was first shown to the public in 1893 at the Great Berlin Art Exhibition. The piece offered here is an early example from the private collection of the artist's descendants. Manufactured by the Gladenbeck foundry, Berlin.
Das Kunst- und Auktionshaus Kastern GmbH & Co KG
Dec. 20, 2025
RHEINHOLD, HUGO WOLFGANG (1852-1900), "Monkey with skull", 1894,
Est: €700 - €1,000
RHEINHOLD, HUGO WOLFGANG (1852-1900), ‘Monkey with Skull’, 1894, bronze, dark brown patina, fully sculpted, hollow cast figure of a chimpanzee sitting on books as a thinker, on a bevelled plinth, signed and dated on the plinth in the casting, height approx. 33 cm, weight approx. 9.3 kg. Signs of age, slightly stained.
Auktionshaus Eppli
Nov. 07, 2025
HUGO WOLFGANG RHEINHOLD (1852-1900), C
Est: -
Hugo Wolfgang Rheinhold (1852-1900), chimpanzee thoughtfully contemplating a human skull, limited edition cast by Arsmundi of the famous sculpture critical of evolutionary theory, marked ''Eritis sicut deus'' and ''Darwin'' on a book, patinated and partly polished bronze on marble plinth, signed on the base, foundry mark and num. 20/980, with original certificate, total height 26 cm
Historia Auctionata
Nov. 07, 2025
HUGO WOLFGANG RHEINHOLD (1852-1900), C
Est: -
Hugo Wolfgang Rheinhold (1852-1900), chimpanzee pensively contemplating a human skull, older cast of the famous sculpture critical of evolutionary theory, inscribed on a book with ''Eritis sicut deus'' and ''Darwin,'' patinated bronze, signed on the base, slightly soiled, height 17 cm
Historia Auctionata
Sep. 13, 2025
Hugo Wolfgang RHEINHOLD (1852-1900) Eritis sicut deus - monkey with skull,
Est: €150 -
cast, signed on plinth Rheinhold, full-figure chimpanzee with skull sitting on a stack of books, vulgate quote "eritis sicut deus..." Book of Genesis (1. Moses 3,5 / Latin: you will be like God), on marble slab, H 32 cm x W 18 cm x W 21 cm, weight 9 kg, slightly rubbed, Chip on marble corner
Antikauktion Krefeld
Jan. 11, 2025
Hugo Rheinhold (Oberlahnstein 1853-1900 Berlin), Affe mit Schädel / A bronze sculpture of a monkey with a scull
Est: €150 - €300
Material: Bronze, patiniert, Marmorsockel, Signatur: Künstlersignatur, ARS Mundi 638/980, Maße: 26 x 17 cm, Zustand: gut, Kommentar: Zertifikat anbei
Auktionshaus Schwab
Jun. 13, 2023
Hugo Wolfgang Rheinhold Figural Gilt Bronze Statue
Est: $2,000 - $4,000
DESCRIPTION: Hugo Wolfgang Rheinhold, German (19/20th C) Gilt bronze statue of a monkey atop a stack of books, inscribed "Eritis Sicut Deus" holding a human skull, signed in cast: "Rheinhold mounted to marble base. CIRCA: 20th Century ORIGIN: Germany DIMENSIONS: H: 13" x W: 9" x L: 8" CONDITION: Chip on corner of marble base. See lot description for details on item condition. More detailed condition requests can be obtained via email (info@akibaantiques.com) or SMS (305)-332-9274. Any condition statement given, as a courtesy to a client, is only an opinion and should not be treated as a statement of fact. Akiba Antiques shall have no responsibility for any error or omission.
Akiba Galleries
Oct. 22, 2022
Bronze Darwin's Ape Holding Skull Statue
Est: $400 - $800
Bronze sculpture an ape holding a skull while sitting on books written by Darwin inscribed "Eritis Sicut Deus". Sculpted by Hugo Wolfgang Rheinhold (German 1853-1900). The quote inscribed on the bronze originates from Genesis 3:5. Attributed to the serpent trying to convince Eve to eat from the forbidden fruit. The ape's pose is reminiscent of Hamlet looking at Yorick's skull. Foundry by Aktiengesell Vorni Gladenbeck & Sol, this sculpture is mounted on a marble base. It is a very detailed bronze. There is some paint missing from the skull, Measures 9"H X 6 1/8W including marble base
Donley Auction Services
Sep. 10, 2022
HUGO WOLFGANG RHEINHOLD 'ERITUS SICUT DEUS' (AFFE MIT SCHÄDEL)
Est: €400 - €800
HUGO WOLFGANG RHEINHOLD 1853 Oberlahnstein - 1900 Berlin 'Eritus sicut deus' (Affe mit Schädel) Kerngalvano, braun patiniert, Marmorsockel. Ges.- H. 33 cm, H. 30 cm (Figur). Auf der Plinthe bezeichnet 'Rheinhold'. Über einem quadratischen Sockel gleichförmige Plinthe mit der vollplastischen Darstellung eines auf Darwins Werken sitzenden Affen mit Zirkel, einen Menschenschädel betrachtend. Min. ber., Sockel part. best.Zeichen(10)HUGO WOLFGANG RHEINHOLD 1853 Oberlahnstein - 1900 Berlin 'Eritus sicut deus' (Affe mit Schädel) Kerngalvano, braun patiniert, Marmorsockel. Ges.- H. 33 cm, H. 30 cm (Figur). Auf der Plinthe bezeichnet 'Rheinhold'. Über einem quadratischen Sockel gleichförmige Plinthe mit der vollplastischen Darstellung eines auf Darwins Werken sitzenden Affen mit Zirkel, einen Menschenschädel betrachtend. Min. ber., Sockel part. best.
Hargesheimer Kunstauktionen Düsseldorf
Mar. 20, 2021
Wolfgang Hugo Rheinhold. 1853 Oberlahnstein -...
Est: €1,500 - €2,000
Wolfgang Hugo Rheinhold. 1853 Oberlahnstein - 1900 Berlin - 'Affe mit Schädel' (The origin of the species) - Bronze. Goldbraun patiniert. Rötlicher Marmorsockel. H. o./m. Sockel: 16,8/19 cm. Auf der Standfläche sign.: Rheinhold. fec. Seitl. auf einem der Bücher mit dem Gießervermerk: Aktien Ges. / vorm. / H Gladenbeck / u. Sohn. Der 'Affe mit Schädel' ist Rheinholds bekanntestes Werk. Er schuf es 1892. Der Öffentlichkeit wurde es erstmals 1893 auf der Großen Berliner Kunstausstellung präsentiert.
Das Kunst- und Auktionshaus Kastern GmbH & Co KG
Mar. 13, 2019
"Eritis Sicut Deus" monkey
Est: €1,000 - €1,500
Patinated and cold painted bronze Representing a monkey holding skull, seated on Darwin books Signed, with foundry name inscription Marble base
Veritas Art Auctioneers
Sep. 12, 2018
Hugo Wolfgang Rheinhold (1853-1900), German
Est: $1,500 - $2,000
Hugo Wolfgang Rheinhold, German (1853-1900). Imperfections. Dimensions: Height: 12 1/2", Width: 8", Depth: 7". (fine art, statue, figural, decorative accessory, interior design) STERLING ASSOCIATES STRIVES TO PROVIDE ACCURATE, OBJECTIVE, AND FAIR INFORMATION ON ALL LOTS. WE WILL BE HAPPY TO ANSWER ANY QUESTIONS AND PROVIDE ADDITIONAL PHOTOS. WE ADVISE THAT YOU, OR SOMEONE ON YOUR BEHALF, INSPECT ANY ITEM(S) AND COME TO YOUR OWN CONCLUSIONS BEFORE BIDDING. ALL SALES ARE FINAL. PLEASE SEE TERMS & CONDITIONS.
Sterling Associates, Inc.
Sep. 03, 2018
AN EARLY 20TH CENTURY GERMAN BRONZED PLASTER FIGURE OF 'DARWIN'S APE' After
Est: £600 - £800
AN EARLY 20TH CENTURY GERMAN BRONZED PLASTER FIGURE OF 'DARWIN'S APE' After Hugo Wolfgang Rheinhold (1853-1900). 34 cm x 20 cm.
Hannam's Auctioneers
Jun. 20, 2018
Hugo Wolfgang Rheinhold (1853-1900), German
Est: $1,500 - $2,000
Hugo Wolfgang Rheinhold, German (1853-1900). Imperfections. Dimensions: Height: 12 1/2", Width: 8", Depth: 7". (fine art, statue, figural, decorative accessory, interior design) STERLING ASSOCIATES STRIVES TO PROVIDE ACCURATE, OBJECTIVE, AND FAIR INFORMATION ON ALL LOTS. WE WILL BE HAPPY TO ANSWER ANY QUESTIONS AND PROVIDE ADDITIONAL PHOTOS. WE ADVISE THAT YOU, OR SOMEONE ON YOUR BEHALF, INSPECT ANY ITEM(S) AND COME TO YOUR OWN CONCLUSIONS BEFORE BIDDING. ALL SALES ARE FINAL. PLEASE SEE TERMS & CONDITIONS.
Sterling Associates, Inc.
May. 16, 2018
Hugo Wolfgang Rheinhold (1853-1900), German
Est: $1,500 - $2,000
Hugo Wolfgang Rheinhold, German (1853-1900). Imperfections. Dimensions: Height: 12 1/2", Width: 8", Depth: 7". (fine art, statue, figural, decorative accessory, interior design) STERLING ASSOCIATES STRIVES TO PROVIDE ACCURATE, OBJECTIVE, AND FAIR INFORMATION ON ALL LOTS. WE WILL BE HAPPY TO ANSWER ANY QUESTIONS AND PROVIDE ADDITIONAL PHOTOS. WE ADVISE THAT YOU, OR SOMEONE ON YOUR BEHALF, INSPECT ANY ITEM(S) AND COME TO YOUR OWN CONCLUSIONS BEFORE BIDDING. ALL SALES ARE FINAL. PLEASE SEE TERMS & CONDITIONS.
Sterling Associates, Inc.
Oct. 28, 2017
AFTER HUGO WOLFGANG RHEINHOLD "ERITUS SICUT DEUS"
Est: $100 - $200
After Hugo Wolfgang Rheinhold "Eritus sicut deus" Sculpture, Hugo Wolfgang Rheinhold (Germany,1853 - 1900), bronzed cast metal sculpture depicting an ape sitting on a stack of books holding a human scull in its right hand and a compass in its right foot, one of the books reads "Darwin", signed in cast "Rheinhold, Alva 1980", 7.5" x 8.5" x 13" high
Wickliff & Associates Auctioneers, Inc.
Feb. 08, 2017
After Hugo Wolfgang Rheinhold (1853-1900) - brown patinated bronze model of an ape holding a human skull whilst sitting on a pile of Darwinian books, also known as The Philosophising Monkey, signed "F(?) OSSI" and variously inscribed with
Est: £200 - £300
After Hugo Wolfgang Rheinhold (1853-1900) - brown patinated bronze model of an ape holding a human skull whilst sitting on a pile of Darwinian books, also known as The Philosophising Monkey, signed "F(?) OSSI" and variously inscribed with misspellings, 18ins high
Canterbury Auction Galleries
Sep. 20, 2016
Wolfgang Hugo Rheinhold (1853-1900). A patinated and cold painted bronze sculpture 'ape with skull', 7.5in.
Est: £1,200 - £1,800
Wolfgang Hugo Rheinhold (1853-1900). A patinated and cold painted bronze sculpture 'ape with skull', also known as the philosophising monkey, signed and with foundry mark H. Gladenbeck and Sohn, on a rouge marble base, 7.5in.
Gorringes
Jun. 30, 2016
Hugo Wolfgang Rheinhold (German, 1853-1900), ERITIS SICUT DEUS, height 13" — 33 cm.
Est: -
HUGO WOLFGANG RHEINHOLD (GERMAN, 1853-1900)ERITIS SICUT DEUSpatinated copper electrotype model of a monkey contemplating a human skul, signed, numbered, height 13" — 33 cm.Estimate: $800—1,200
Waddington's
Nov. 26, 2015
After Wolfgang Hugo Rheinhold (1853-1900), a bronzed 'Affe Mit Schadel',
Est: £300 - £500
After Wolfgang Hugo Rheinhold (1853-1900), a bronzed 'Affe Mit Schadel', the pensive ape looks at a skull while holding calipers in his foot as he sits on books, one inscribed 'Darwin', signed h:33 cm
Cheffins
Mar. 05, 2015
Wolfgang Hugo Rheinhold (1853-1900), a late 19th century bronze 'Affe Mit Schadel',
Est: £500 - £700
Wolfgang Hugo Rheinhold (1853-1900), a late 19th century bronze 'Affe Mit Schadel', the pensive ape looks at a skull while holding calipers in his foot as he sits on books one inscribed 'Darwin', signed h:33 cm
Cheffins
Sep. 23, 2014
A patinated bronze group: "Eritis Sicut Deus"after a model by Hugo Wolfgang Rheinhold (German, 1853-1900)fourth quarter 19th century Fine American and European Furniture, Silver, Folk and Decorative Arts and Clocks
Est: $2,500 - $4,500
Depicting an ape contemplating a human skull, inscribed RHEINHOLD to the base, with DARWIN to the spine of a book, and ERITIS SICUT DEUS to a torn scroll. height 12 1/2in (31.75cm)
Bonhams
Oct. 23, 2013
Hugo Wolfgang Rheinhold, German (1853-1900)
Est: $2,000 - $4,000
Hugo Wolfgang Rheinhold, German (1853-1900) Darwin Monkey 'You made a Mistake, God', Silver over bronze monkey sculpture on marble base, signed: Rheinhold. Height: 12 1/2", Width: 8"
Sterling Associates, Inc.
Mar. 14, 2013
HUGO WOLFGANG RHEINHOLD (1852-1900), DARWIN MONKEY
Est: €500 - €800
HUGO WOLFGANG RHEINHOLD (1852-1900), DARWIN MONKEY
Renascimento
Jan. 11, 2011
After Hugo Wolfgang Rheinhold, German (1853-1900) A copper clad model of a chimpanzee entitled Eritis Sicut Deus (You made a Mistake, God)
Est: £300 - £500
(You made a Mistake, God) the chimpanzee atop a stack of books inscribed Darwin, contemplating a human skull and holding a pair of callipers in his toes, on a Greek Antique Green marble plinth, 34cm high
Bonhams
Apr. 07, 2009
Hugo Wolfgang Rheinhold (German, 1853-1900): A bronze model of a chimpanzee entitled 'Eritis Sicut Deus'('You made a Mistake, God')
Est: £800 - £1,200
('You made a Mistake, God') the chimpanzee atop a stack of books inscribed Darwin, contemplating a human skull and holding a pair of callipers in his toes, rich brown patination, signed Rheinhold, on a square red marble base, 34cm high
Bonhams
Mar. 12, 2008
After Hugo Wolfgang Rheinhold (German 1853-1900)
Est: £700 - £900
After Hugo Wolfgang Rheinhold (German 1853-1900) 'Eritis Sicut Deus' ('You made a Mistake, God'), brown patinated bronze figure depicting a chimpanzee atop a stack of books by Darwin, contemplating a human skull and holding a pair of callipers in his toes, 29cm, on Red marble base. Signed 'Rheinhold.'
Nesbits