Ernst Henseler (1852-1940) - Portrait

Ernst Henseler (1852-1940), untitled (Portrait of a Gentleman), 1909.

Pastel, watercolor, and pencil drawing on thin paper. 44 x 28.6 cm, signed and dated.

Provenance: Private collection, Berlin.

Condition: Age-appropriate condition, minimal tears at the edges of the leaves. Photos are part of the condition description.

Biography
Ernst Henseler (1852–1940) was a German artist and graphic designer, known primarily for his work in painting, drawing, printmaking, and applied graphics. He was active during the transitional period from the 19th to the 20th century and stylistically stands between late Historicism, Art Nouveau, and early Modernism.
Henseler's work is characterized by high craftsmanship, clear compositions, and a strong interest in typography, ornamentation, and image structure. In addition to fine art, he created illustrations, book and commercial graphics, significantly contributing to the development of German graphic and design culture of his time.
As an artist of the Wilhelminian epoch and early modernism, Ernst Henseler is today primarily of art historical significance. His works are housed in archives, public collections, and estates, documenting the shift from traditional art concepts to modern visual design.