Johann Wilhelm Preyer (1803-1889) was one of the most influential German still life painters of the 19th century and was most well known for his limited and ochre-heavy compositions of fruits and wine glasses. He was a founder of the Düsseldorf School of Artists, and is one of the most sought after still life painters of his time. Mostly influenced by the 17th century Flemish Old Masters, but he also kept with the Biedermeier aesthetic. His paintings were purchased by King Ludwig I of Bavaria, and housed in the collections of the Victoria & Albert Museum, The Walters Art Museum, and the Nationalgalerie in Berlin. This particular piece was done c. 1860, and was likely a study for a larger composition. It is unsigned, but was at one time purchased from a collection that had several of Preyer’s signed paintings. 

Unsigned and not dated

Medium: oil on linen

Support size: 12 3/16 x 16 1/8” Dimensions of outside frame: 18 1/4” x 22”

Period of creation: c. 1860

Condition: It is in excellent condition, with no losses, overcleaning, nor surface abrasions. It has been cleaned and a new varnish applied, recently lined with a fine Belgian linen. It retains its original stretcher;  canvas is taut and has all keys present. The period appropriate Birds-eye Maple frame appears to be original, and is in good condition despite some repairs to the veneer. The German silver liner is contemporary.

High Auction Result (for attributed work): $5,500 (for signed work): $191,200