St. Goarshausen et les ruines Der Katze
Print on paper, framed under glass • Engraved after a drawing by William Tombleson (English, 1795-c.1846)
Style & Movement
Romanticism; Biedermeier topographical landscape
Medium & Technique
Steel engraving with hand-coloring; likely utilizing fine line hatching and stippling
Creation Period
Mid-19th Century (circa 1830-1850)
Dimensions & Format
Approx. 10 x 14 inches (framed), landscape format
Subject Description
A picturesque view of the Rhine River featuring the town of Sankt Goarshausen and the Katz Castle (Burg Katz) ruins on the cliff above. A small sailboat navigates the water in the foreground alongside figures by shore-side buildings, emphasizing the Romantic fascination with the scenic Rhine landscape.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good; visible age-related toning to the paper and matting
Estimated Market Value
$50 - $150 USD
Auction Estimate
$30 - $100 USD
Provenance History
Likely originally from a topographical series such as Tombleson’s View of the Rhine; subsequent private ownership reflected in mid-20th-century style framing
Art Historical Significance
Representative of the 19th-century European fascination with the 'Grand Tour' and the Rhine's Romantic landscape, which inspired travelers and artists alike during the rise of middle-class tourism.
Notable Features
Fine typographic inscription at the bottom margin identifying the location; delicate hand-tinting in the sky and foliage; decorative beaded gilt frame.
Condition Issues
Mild foxing/discoloration spots; significant acid burn from the non-archival matting; slight fading of hand-applied colors due to light exposure.
Conservation Recommendations
Reframing with acid-free archival matting and UV-protective glass is recommended to prevent further yellowing and deterioration.