2311/​85

Bertha Wegmann (b. Soglio, Switzerland 1847, d. Copenhagen 1926)

A girl in a telephone conversation. Grisaille. Signed B. W. Oil on canvas. 52×32 cm.

Bertha Wegmann was one of the few female artists who in her time achieved great international success and recognition. She was born in Switzerland, but traveled with her family to Denmark, where she grew up. She received her artistic education in Munich in 1867–81 and subsequently in Paris, where she was influenced by the modern French art.

Wegmann’s large-scale production included both genre paintings, landscapes, interiors, and still lifes, and she also became one of the most significant and sought-after portrait painters of her time. She both portrayed her family and close friends and painted numerous commissioned portraits.

Wegmann had her debut at Charlottenborg’s Spring Exhibition in 1873 and exhibited here regularly until her death. She also participated in several major exhibitions in the Nordic countries and Europe, including the Salon in Paris, where she won a gold medal in 1882, and the World’s fair in Paris 1889 and Chicago 1893.

Wegmann worked actively to improve the opportunities of female artists as a member of the board of The School of Drawing and Art Industry for Women (Tegne- og Kunstindustriskolen for Kvinder) in 1887–1907. She was the first woman ever to be elected to the Royal Academy of Fine Arts’ Plenary Assembly. Furthermore she was the first woman to be elected to Charlottenborg’s Exhibition and Censorship Committee.

Description revised 2023–03-07.

Condition

Crackles. A few minimal peelings. One retouch. The canvas is bulging. The canvas needs tightening. In need of cleaning. Mounted in passe-partout.

Additional Remarks

Please note: The item is subject to the Anti-Money Laundering Act. In the event of a hammer price of DKK 50,000 or more, including buyer’s premium, the buyer must submit a copy of a valid photo ID and proof of address in order to collect the item.

Auction

Paintings, furniture and varia, 13 March 2023

Category
Estimate

20,000–25,000 DKK

Sold

Price realised

26,000 DKK  

19 bids

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