Being the history buff that I am (thanks to my dad and endless hours playing Trivial Pursuit at all family functions), I was truly amazed by one of our latest estate fine art finds!
The subject and style were instantly intriguing to me, but became even more remarkable once I noticed the date below the artist's signature: "12 . XI .1918".
For those who have a bit of trouble with their Roman Numerals, this means the scene was painted on November 12, 1918 - just one day after an armistice ended the First World War!
Here comes the history lesson!
The Allied powers signed a cease-fire agreement with Germany at Rethondes, France on November 11, 1918, bringing World War I to a close. Between the wars, November 11 was commemorated as Armistice Day in the United States, Great Britain, and France. After World War II, the holiday was recognized as a day of tribute to veterans of both world wars.
The watercolor was most likely painted in the city of Berlin, as several German flags can be seen waved in the crowd along the right side. The painting is signed by Rudolf Konopa, a well listed Austrian born artist (1864-1938).
We've all seen the photos of Allied soldiers returning from the front lines and kissing their lovers in the streets surrounded by mass crowds celebrating the end of the war, such as this Second World War classic shot below:
With this painting, Rudolf Konopa has truly captured an important moment in German history and for me, the painting brings a new perspective to an iconic day.For more info and photos of this painting, check out the eBay listing by clicking
here.
