My Father-in-Law at 45 (Apósom 45 éves)
Painting on wooden panel or card • Hungarian School; possibly György Orbán or an artist with the surname Orbán, based on the partial signature 'Orbán Gy.'
Style & Movement
Mid-century Realism / Post-Impressionist influence, typical of Hungarian figurative painting in the mid-20th century.
Medium & Technique
Oil on panel, likely utilizing alla prima or direct painting techniques with visible impasto and broad brushstrokes.
Creation Period
August 9, 1950 (dated explicitly as 1950. VIII. 9.)
Dimensions & Format
Approx. 40 x 30 cm; Portrait orientation.
Subject Description
A portrait of the artist's father-in-law at age 45. The composition appears focused on the psychological character of the sitter, evidenced by the expressive and textured application of paint in the background and garment areas.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Fair/Poor. The wooden support shows significant structural damage, including a large crack and loss in the lower right corner.
Estimated Market Value
$300 - $800 USD (due to significant condition issues and specialized regional interest).
Auction Estimate
$200 - $500 USD.
Provenance History
Private collection, likely originating from the artist's family in Hungary given the intimate inscription 'Apósom' (My father-in-law).
Art Historical Significance
Represents the provincial or academic tradition of Hungarian painting during the early socialist period, maintaining personal narrative over state-mandated styles.
Notable Features
Features a specific Hungarian inscription: 'Apósom 45 éves' (My father-in-law is 45 years old) followed by a signature and a precise date.
Condition Issues
Major vertical crack extending from the bottom edge; paint loss and abrasion along the margins; surface grime and yellowed varnish.
Conservation Recommendations
Requires structural stabilization of the panel (cleat or balsa backing), surface cleaning, and professional retouching of losses. Store in a climate-controlled environment.