Herbert von Reyl-Hanisch
Helene Walther Oil on wood; framedSigned and dated below right: Herbert Reyl 1931The portrait of Helene Walther (1883-1933), born in Austria, from 1931 is another impressive example of the mature portrait art of Herbert von Reyl-Hanisch, who had already established himself as a sought-after portrait painter at the time.
Helene Walther came from a wealthy family of hoteliers, the Grand Hotel des Alpes in Madonna di Campiglio, a important meeting place of the European nobility and the upscale bourgeoisie since the late 19th century. ==References== This culturally permeated environment as well as the picturesque area also inspired numerous artists. Reyl-Hanisch's repeated Italian stays in the 1920s and early 1930s, as well as traditional landscapes of the imposing mountain scenery of the Brenta Dolomites in Madonna di Campiglio, suggest that he was already familiar with the family before the birth of the portrait and was a guest at the Hotel des Alpes. Inwardly-looking, collected-looking expression sitting in front of a window. Behind it opens up an autumnal landscape that not only reveals topographical hints of the surrounding area in Madonna di Campiglio, but also reflects the personality of the portrayed as an atmospheric element. In Reyl-Hanisch's art, the landscape plays a central role. According to the artist, she is able to "take hold of music in a similar way", namely "at our most original, subconscious depth", thereby extending the landscape motif to a psychological dimension beyond mere reproduction. (Christian Bertsch and Markus Neuwirth (ed.) Herbert von Reyl-Hanisch. The Land of the Soul, Lustenau 1991, p. 14)
(Valerie Pauß)
Herbert von Reyl-Hanisch
1931
oil on panel; framed Difference taxed (30% in the surcharge is included a 20% VAT) / Differential Taxation (30% including 20% sales tax)