Vincent Stoltenberg-Lerche (Norwegian, 1837-1892), A Monastic Library

Oil on canvas (lined), signed at lower left, presented in a period gilt composition frame.

Stretcher size 32 x 41 in.; Frame dimensions 45 1/2 x 55 in.

Vincent Stoltenberg Lerche was a Norwegian painter, illustrator, and author linked to the Düsseldorf school, where he studied under Hans Gude and others. He gained early recognition for detailed architectural and church interiors, winning a silver medal at the 1862 London World’s Fair, and later turned to lively genre scenes, including humorous depictions of monks. He contributed to Scandinavian and German periodicals and authored illustrated books, working in both oil and drawing, with a range that includes church interiors, historical scenes, and folkloric imagery.

Masking varnish with several areas of retouch to background of scene visible under UV light; some chipping and repairs to frame. Note that frame is quite fragile and prone to additional chipping and flaking.