Seelbrunnen (Soul Fountain) in Rothenburg ob der Tauber
Print, color etching and aquatint on paper • Ernst Geissendörfer (1908-1993)
Style & Movement
German Regionalism / Veduta / Realism
Medium & Technique
Color etching and aquatint; hand-inked plate using the 'à la poupée' technique or subsequent hand-coloring, featuring fine linear cross-hatching and tonal washes.
Creation Period
Early to mid-20th century (c. 1920-1950)
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 25 x 35 cm; Portrait format
Subject Description
A picturesque depiction of the Seelbrunnen fountain in the medieval town of Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Germany. The composition features half-timbered houses (Fachwerkhaus), including a building with a sign for 'Meistertrunk.' In the background, the tower of St. Jakob's Church is visible under an atmospheric sky.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good; showing signs of acid-toning from original mountings but remains visually intact.
Estimated Market Value
USD 150 - USD 300
Auction Estimate
USD 100 - USD 200
Provenance History
Likely acquired as a souvenir from the 'Galerie Geissendörfer' in Rothenburg; hallmarks show pencil inscriptions 'Orig. Rad. von Geissendörfer' (Original Etching by Geissendörfer).
Art Historical Significance
Representational of the 'Heimat' style of German printmaking which popularized Romantic views of preserved medieval architecture for the early tourism market. Geissendörfer is a well-known local artist whose family gallery still operates in Rothenburg.
Notable Features
Hand-signed in pencil by the artist. Includes the specific German title and 'Orig. Rad.' notation indicating it is an original etching rather than a photomechanical reproduction.
Condition Issues
Visible yellowing of the paper (acid burn/browning), slight foxing dots in the sky area, and possible light-fading of more sensitive pigments.
Conservation Recommendations
Remove from original backing to prevent further acid damage; remount using acid-free matting and UV-protective glass. Store in a stable humidity environment.
Collector Notes
Germany