1859 German Oil Painting Dutch Style Frozen Lake Winter Scene Signed Framed

This antique painting, attributed to German artist Franz Reiff (1835-1902) and dated 1859, captures a bustling winter evening along the shores of a frozen lake. The composition follows classical Empire proportions, allowing the expansive sky to dominate the land. This approach, paired with soft brushwork, enhances the visual effect of frosty air and winter haze. The setting sun casts a golden-amber light across the frozen surface, tinged with subtle violet tones, as dozens of small figures (people and animals) go about their activities - strolling, ice skating, sledding, and conversing with one another. The layered arrangement of elements (ice-bound boats, architectural structures, and wooded areas) creates spatial depth throughout the scene. This work reflects classic Dutch winter painting traditions, thoughtfully reinterpreted by a talented German artist, making it an excellent addition to any collection.
DETAILS:
Artist: Signed lower right "F. Reiff, 1859", attributed to German artist Franz Reiff (1835-1902)
Medium: Oil painting on canvas.
Image dimensions (approx.): 54 x 65.5 cm (21.3 × 25.8 inches)
Condition: Overall in good condition with wear such craquelure and tiny losses, partly cleaned and canvas relined (please study pictures).
Framed dimensions (approx.): 76 x 86 cm (29.9 × 33.9 inches)
Frame: Fair condition, with losses and signs of age-appropriate wear. ONLY the canvas on stretcher is sold. The frame is considered a gift (or bonus), has no value, and is not covered by our shipping damage warranty. But you can rest assured that no matter what, we will still try our best when packing the item. You may opt to decline shipping the painting with the frame and inform me of this decision before payment, in which case the shipping cost will be reduced in the final invoice. Please be aware of this and bid accordingly!
Provenance: Swedish private collection.
Shipping: Approx. weight 5 kg; packed approx. weight 7-8 kg. Secure, insured worldwide shipping.
Notes: Kindly refer to the high-resolution photographs, which form part of the condition report. Colors and tonal values may vary when viewed in person, depending on viewing conditions and ambient lighting.