Signed lower right “Henningsen” and dated 1881 at reverse. Attributed by Erik Ludvig Henningsen (1855 - 1930) was a Danish painter and illustrator. Masterly painted genre scene “testing grandfather’s pipe” depicting lively domestic moment. The little prankster wants to be like his grandfather, but how can he not try his grandfather’s pipe, which he loves so much and does not let go of even in his sleep. The curious and brave sly man, despite the consequences, took off his shoes to approach quietly... One can imagine his disappointment and emotions after he accomplished what he had planned... The boy's faithful friend, a small dog, looks at all this with interest and curiosity. Loved and admired for his talent to realistically portray life and tell a story at the same time, Henningsen took great pride to never include any personal feelings or philosophy, but to stay neutral to the subject matter for whichever painting he was doing. Antique oil painting on canvas, signed, framed.
Size: 43 cm x 35 cm (roughly 16.9 x 13.8 in), frame 52 x 43.5 cm (roughly 20.5 x 17.1 in). Very Good pristine condition with minimal wear. Please study good resolution images for cosmetic condition. In person actual painting may appear darker or brighter than in our pictures, strictly depending on sufficient light in your environment. Weight of app. 1 kg is going to measure some 2 kg packed for shipment.
Erik Henningsen was educated at the Copenhagen Royal Academy of Art. He Traveled and studied in Germany, Italy, France and Holland, and received numerous awards and medals throughout Europe. He later became a member of the Royal Academy of Art. Exhibited in Charlottenborg, Copenhagen, Vienna, Paris, Berlin, Munich, Lubeck, and many more. Erik Henningsen is always mentioned in the same breath as his older brother, painter Frants Henningsen. Both with their traditionally classic approach to realism, anecdotal undertones and bold use of dark colors, they were the most loved and celebrated illustrators of life and times; often depicting the hardships and trials of that day and age. One of Erik Henningsen’s large influences in his style and techniques, were Poets Schandorph and Drachmann, who are often accredited with the direction and approach Henningsen took in many of his works. Henningsen was often commissioned to do historical and genre paintings, such as the great depression, or the socially distinct lines between nobility and the working class. His paintings today adorn the halls and rooms of numerous castles, manors, and museums around Europe. His works are also published in many art books, and are frequently the focus of study for many art students.