Lot 933: Caspar David Friedrich "Das Eismeer, 1823" Oil Painting

Caspar David Friedrich (1774-1840) was a German Romantic painter known for his evocative and contemplative landscapes. He is considered one of the most important figures in the Romantic movement in art, and his work is characterized by its emphasis on nature, spirituality, and a sense of the sublime. Here are some key points about Caspar David Friedrich and his art:1. **Early Life and Background**: Friedrich was born in Greifswald, Pomerania (now part of Germany). He grew up in a region with a rich natural landscape, which later became a significant source of inspiration for his paintings.2. **Romanticism**: Friedrich's art is closely associated with the Romantic movement, which emerged in the late 18th century as a reaction against the rationalism of the Enlightenment. Romanticism emphasized emotion, imagination, and the power of nature.3. **Landscape Paintings**: Friedrich is best known for his landscape paintings, which often feature dramatic and contemplative scenes of nature. His landscapes are characterized by their grandeur, simplicity, and a sense of awe and wonder.4. **The Sublime**: Friedrich's work frequently explores the concept of the sublime, which refers to the experience of encountering something vast, powerful, and awe-inspiring in nature. His paintings often evoke feelings of spiritual and emotional transcendence.5. **Lonely Figures**: Many of Friedrich's paintings include solitary figures, often seen from behind, contemplating the natural world. These figures are intended to represent the viewer, inviting them to engage with the landscape on a personal and spiritual level.6. **Religio Themes**: Friedrich's art often contains religio symbolism and themes. He was deeply influenced by his Pietist upbringing and his paintings frequently convey a sense of spiritual longing and connection with the divine in nature.7. **Influence on Symbolism**: Friedrich's work had a significant influence on the Symbolist movement in art, which explored themes of spirituality, dreams, and the subconscio. Symbolist artists admired Friedrich's ability to convey deep, inner emotions through landscape.8. **Later Life and Recognition**: Friedrich's work was not always well-received during his lifetime, as it was considered unconventional. However, he gained recognition and influence in the later years of his career, and he is now regarded as one of the leading figures of German Romanticism.9. **Legacy**: Caspar David Friedrich's art continues to be celebrated for its ability to evoke deep emotional and spiritual responses. His paintings are considered timeless and have left a lasting impact on the art world.10. **Death**: Friedrich's career was affected by declining health, and he died in relative obscurity in Dresden in 1840. However, his reputation and influence grew significantly in the decades that followed.Caspar David Friedrich's landscapes are celebrated for their power to evoke a sense of awe, mystery, and spiritual contemplation. His work remains a testament to the enduring appeal of nature and the human connection to the natural world.
Measures 20 x 24.
Sold "after" Friedrich.
Oil on canvas.

Good condition. No major rips, tears, etc.