Brave Fine Art has dated this piece to the 1930s.
While his brother Emil Jungblut (1888-1955) studied at the Düsseldorf Art Academy and produced a range of remarkable sculptures. Yet, despite this, it seems that Walter preferred to work against the grain and paint with gesture and expression - even though this led to very limited exposure during his lifetime.
In this self-portrait from around 1930, what do you see? How do you feel about the brushwork and energy? For us, we see anguish, a degree of suffering, yet also pride.
Is the narrative a direct consequence of his life as an outsider?
It’s also interesting that this self-portrait has been painted over another work, which is still visible around the edges. Did he angrily lay down the oils - unhappy with the previous piece - and paint through a haze of frustration?
Walter Jungblut’s story raises more questions than answers as there’s so little information available. He was an enigmatic character with an interesting background - and this portrait speaks volumes.
The painting is signed in the lower right.
Medium: Oil on canvas
Overall size: 21” x 29” / 54cm x 74cm
Year of creation: c. 1930
Provenance: Germany
Condition: Craquelure throughout but it seems to add to the sense of drama. A few minor paint losses but the paint seems broadly stable.
Brave Fine Art has dated this piece to the 1930s.
Exquisite antique paintings that capture the imagination.
You can view the stock and full dealer information on the Brave Fine Art Profile Page
Walter Jungblut, Self-portrait - Vintage Oil Painting
