Ludwig Friedrich Hofelich, Pond Landscape with Figure - Antique Oil Painting

This late 19th-century oil painting by German artist Ludwig Friedrich Hofelich (1842-1903) depicts a landscape with pond, figure and distant view.

Mankind’s intrinsic bond with nature is no better conveyed than through the medium of fine art. And in the case of Ludwig Friedrich Hofelich, working among the wilds, valleys and heaths meant more to him than most and possibly saved his life.

During the early part of his career, Hofelich was a workaholic, burning the candle at both ends - studying music and art in tandem and seeking to rank among the highest echelons for both. His irrepressible drive took him first to the prestigious academy in St Petersburg and then Dresden and Berlin. He worked tirelessly, hiring a piano and studying through the night to hone his multi-discipline crafts.

It brought rewards but equally suffering as he was soon blighted by a ‘violent nerve fever’, which he carried with him for the remainder of his life. Initially, he specialised in figure painting but seeking the restorative qualities of the great outdoors, switched to landscape painting for his well-being.

It’s poignant that in this piece from around 1900, he’s included a solitary figure, perhaps a huntsman, standing among the foliage. He, too, would’ve traversed the land in isolation, dazzled by the ever-changing effects of light, breathtaking views and shimmering waterways.

Signed lower left and held within a gilt frame.

Medium: Oil on canvas

Overall size: 36½” x 25” / 93cm x 63cm

Year of creation: c. 1900

Provenance: Private collection, Germany.

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

Artist’s auction maximum: £4,588

Ludwig Friedrich Hofelich (1890-1948) was an accomplished German painter and wood engraver of landscapes. He trained initially under Johann Gottfried Flegel before enrolling at the Imperial Academy of Arts in Saint Petersburg and later at the Academy in Leipzig. Blighted by ill-health, he turned to landscape painting to enable greater access to the rejuvenating qualities of nature. In addition to his painting prowess, he was also a talented pianist.

Learn more about Ludwig Friedrich Hofelich in our directory.