Courtyard in the 'Laimgrube', Vienna
Original drawing/illustration on paper • Ludwig Bemelmans (American, born Austro-Hungarian, 1898–1962)
Style & Movement
Narrative Illustration / Modernism (specifically children's book illustration style)
Medium & Technique
Ink, wash, and watercolor on paper; characterized by a quick, gestural ink outline and selective color application
Creation Period
Mid-20th Century (circa 1940-1960)
Dimensions & Format
Estimated 8 x 10 inches; square to slightly horizontal format
Subject Description
A charming architectural study of a traditional Viennese courtyard in the 'Laimgrube' district. The composition includes a large tree trunk in the foreground, a courtyard pump, and stylized figures of a woman and child in a doorway against tiled roofs and shutters.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good/Very Good; visible toning of the paper consistent with age and suspected non-archival mounting materials
Estimated Market Value
$3,000 - $5,000
Auction Estimate
$2,500 - $4,500
Provenance History
Features a personalized inscription from the artist to 'Mary Samelson Decker,' indicating a personal gift or direct acquisition from the artist's circle.
Art Historical Significance
Bemelmans is world-renowned for his 'Madeline' series. This piece represents his sophisticated travel illustrations and his deep personal connections to European topography and nostalgia for pre-war Vienna.
Notable Features
Signed and inscribed by the artist in the lower right; handwritten title in the lower left. The style is instantly recognizable as that of the Madeline creator, with его typical fluid, whimsical line work.
Condition Issues
Mild paper oxidation (browning), slight fading of colors, and potential acidic mat burn along the edges.
Conservation Recommendations
Reframing with acid-free museum-grade matting and UV-protective glass; keeping the artwork out of direct sunlight to prevent further fading of the watercolor pigments.