Willy Brandes (1876-1956) - Early 20th Century Gouache Mercenaries on Horseback

Description

A well-executed historical scene by German artist Willy Brandes, rendered in balanced colours. A label written in German affixed to the reverse indicates that the scene depicts a group of Swedish mercenaries during the Thirty Years' War approaching a village burnt down by Catholics, where a boy recounts what happened. Signed to the lower right. Well presented in a gilt-effect frame. On paper.

Condition

Overall the condition is good for a picture of this age. Some dirty marks around the edges and a crease to the upper right. Slight warping to the paper. Wear and small losses to the frame.

Size

33 x 47cm (13.0" x 18.5")
Framed Size: 48.5 x 63cm (19.1" x 24.8")

Artist Biography

Willy Brandes (1876-1956) was a German painter and illustrator born in Bornstadt near Potsdam. He was initially apprenticed as a decorative painter before pursuing formal artistic training at the Berlin Academy. He co-founded the “die Aehre" group, with whom he collaborated and exhibited. He also exhibited at the prestigious Great Berlin Art Exhibition.