Adolf Erbslöh
Waldstück (Gartenmauer)
1916
Oil on panel 37.5 x 46.5 cm Framed. Signed and dated 'A. Erbslöh. 15.' in bluish-black lower left. - Professionally cleaned, in fine condition.
The synthesis of nature and landscape permeates Adolf Erbslöh's oeuvre like a leitmotif. The distinct parallel hatching characteristic for the artist's work phase conclude a certain impressionistic influence. An equivalent can be found in his drawings. The wall, as well as the rhythmically rising trees behind, exhibit an accentuated static contouring. At the same time, they give the impression of idyllic peace, a feeling of intimacy and comfort. Erbslöh continuously strived for clarity and structure and for reduced, restrained composition.
On a photograph registered in the estate, the work is titled "Rosipal-Park". The small 19th century castle and its park in Munich, which passed into the possession of Consul Karl Rosipal (1844-1924) in 1870s, no longer exist. Previously, the well-kept gardens comprised the first zoological gardens of the city since 1863.
Catalogue Raisonné
Salmen/Billeter 1916/1
Provenance
Acquired from the artist; in third generation family possession since
Literature
Hans Wille, Adolf Erbslöh 1881-1947. Mit einem Katalog der Gemälde, Kunst- und Museumsverein Wuppertal, Wuppertal 1967, no. N 80 ("Gartenmauer", dat. "Mai 1916")
Exhibitions
Frankfurt a.M. March 1917 (Kunstsalon Ludwig Schames), Neue Münchener Secession, cat. no. 14; Wiesbaden 1917 (Gemäldegalerie Museum Wiesbaden), cat. no. 100