Werner Köhnlein, Nocturne with Figures - Oil Painting

1920 - 1940

Sold by Brave Fine Art

Description

This early 20th-century oil painting by German artist Werner Köhnlein depicts a nocturnal scene with a couple walking by a river.

There’s a masterful quality to this eerie little piece that’s reminiscent, in some ways, of the fascinating Norwegian artist Edvard Munch (1863-1944). Amid the low-key blueish dabs and daubs, there’s a simmering atmosphere with unresolved questions. On the left, three simple lights draw the eye - a lantern, its reflection, and a single star. They create a vertical, which in turn, interacts with the figures.

Who are this couple? Are they returning home? Are they together? Saints or sinners?

While over on the right, the silhouetted trees are both aesthetically stimulating and sinister. What do they symbolise? Love, death, growth, eternity?

Little is known about Werner Köhnlein but his ability to convey enigmatic emotions is evident. He produced this piece between the wars.

Signed lower right and held within a later frame.

Medium: Oil on canvas

Overall size: 20” x 22” / 51cm x 56cm

Year of creation: c. 1930

Condition: Artwork presents well. Fine craquelure but the paint is stable. Frame with some light wear.

German artist Werner Köhnlein is predominantly known for his expressive landscapes in oil, tempera and watercolour.

Physical Dimensions

Height

56cm (22.05")

Width

51cm (20.08")

Depth

4cm (1.57")

Declaration

Brave Fine Art has dated this piece to the 1930s.

Reference Numbers

Sellingantiques Reference

SA1002459

Description

This early 20th-century oil painting by German artist Werner Köhnlein depicts a nocturnal scene with a couple walking by a river.

“

There’s a masterful quality to this eerie little piece that’s reminiscent, in some ways, of the fascinating Norwegian artist Edvard Munch (1863-1944).

Brave Fine Art

Amid the low-key blueish dabs and daubs, there’s a simmering atmosphere with unresolved questions. On the left, three simple lights draw the eye - a lantern, its reflection, and a single star. They create a vertical, which in turn, interacts with the figures.

fig 1. Werner Köhnlein, Nocturne With Figures - Oil Painting — fig 1. Werner Köhnlein, Nocturne with Figures - Oil Painting

Who are this couple? Are they returning home? Are they together? Saints or sinners?

While over on the right, the silhouetted trees are both aesthetically stimulating and sinister. What do they symbolise? Love, death, growth, eternity?