Martin Monnickendam - Village Blacksmith in Rothenburg ob der Tauber

Martin Monnickendam (1874–1943)

Village Blacksmith in Rothenburg ob der Tauber

1922

Signed and dated lower right

Watercolour and chalk on paper

25 x 35 cm

Provenance:

Leviet Collection.

Condition:

In good condition, not faded.

Information:

Martin Monnickendam grew up in a prosperous, liberal Jewish family in Amsterdam. After studying at the Rijksacademie and spending a formative period in Paris, he developed a highly individual painting style characterised by a loose touch, clear colours and a keen eye for light and atmosphere. He exhibited extensively in the Netherlands and abroad and was regarded as one of the innovators of Dutch painting.

During a stay in Rothenburg ob der Tauber in 1922, he made several drawings and watercolours of the medieval town, including this depiction of a blacksmith’s workshop. With loose brushwork and clear colour, he captures the character of the historic street.

Towards the end of his life, Monnickendam was increasingly excluded by the German occupiers, although he continued to work. Shortly before he was due to be deported, he died of pneumonia. A very large part of his oeuvre survived and was brought together by Stichting Vrienden van de schilder Martin Monnickendam.