Lot 85: Frans Deutmann (Dutch 1867-1915) Farmhouse at

Frans Deutmann (Dutch 1867-1915) Farmhouse at Laren oil on canvas, signed 80cm x 100cm Note: Frans Deutmann was born on 27th March 1867 in Zwiolle, Netherlands. He moved to Amsterdam in 1891 and worked for a while as a photographer (the profession of his father). In 1896 he rented a small studio in Rozengracht where he started to paint portraits and interior scenes. After moving to Laren in 1903 he concentrated on portraying the villagers as they went about their daily lives. Whilst at Laren he probably met William and Anna Singer and certainly his subject matter and palette suggest the influence of Josef Israels and especially Johann Neuhuys (1844-1911). His work reflects the rigours of peasant life but always with a dignified tranquility and frequently with a hint of melancholy. Deutmann's works are characterised by excellent technique much admired by the other artists of the Laren (Larense) School but his output was slow and he shunned the commercial galleries and dealers. He died on 18th July 1915 at Blaircum, Northern Holland. Provenance: Private Scottish collection since the 1930's