Lot 656: [ Books ]

HERKOMER, Sir Hubert von 1849-1914. An interesting collection of twelve etchings, varying subjects, including sheet music, self-portrait, male and female figure studies, sizes from 15.5 x 12cm to 21 x 17cm, all framed. (12) Biography: A British artist of German descent. Born at Waal in Bavaria. His father was an accomplished woodcarver who moved his family to Cleveland Ohio in 1851, returning to Europe in 1857 and setting in Southampton, Hampshire. Hubert studied at The School of Art, soon illustrating CHUMS magazine. From these humble beginnings he latterly worked for THE GRAPHIC, studying further at the South Kensington Art Schools. He became a very accomplished artist, pioneering film director and composer. Specialising in portraiture, he is best remembered for his earlier works which took a realistic approach to the conditions of life of the poor. 'HARD TIMES' showing the family of a travelling day-labourer at the side of a road, is probably his best-know work. In 1896 he was knighted by Queen Victoria and in 1899 awarded 'POUR LA MERITE' by Kaiser Wilhelm II.