Artwork

Berta Preiss

Berta Preiss, by Heinrich von Angeli, oil, 1864
Berta Preiss, by Heinrich von Angeli, oil, 1864

Berta Preiss is an oil painting by the Realist artist Heinrich von Angeli. It dates from 1864 and is held in the collection of the Kunsthistorisches Museum.

About this work

Overview

Heinrich von Angeli's 1864 oil painting, Berta Preiss, is a portrait housed at the Kunsthistorisches Museum. The work depicts a woman in a state of quiet contemplation.

Subject & Meaning

The subject, Berta Preiss, is portrayed with introspective demeanor, her right hand raised to her face. Her attire—a dark dress with a white collar and red brooch—and the plain background, focus attention on her expression and emotional state.

Technique & Style

Von Angeli employs a nuanced color palette to achieve depth and texture, characteristic of his portraiture style. The detail of a ring on her finger and the rendering of curly brown hair demonstrate his attention to detail.

History & Provenance

Created in 1864, the painting is part of the Kunsthistorisches Museum's collection. Von Angeli was renowned for his female portraits, with Berta Preiss exemplifying his expertise in capturing the sitters' inner lives.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Heinrich von Angeli

Artist

Heinrich von Angeli

Heinrich von Angeli (1840–1925) was an artist, born in Sopron.