MENZEL ADOLPH: (1815-1905) German Realist artist, considered one of the two most prominent German painters of the 19th century alongside Caspar David Friedrich. A rare vintage signed cabinet photograph, the sepia albumen print by Pilartz of Bad Kissingen depicting Menzel in a seriois head and shoulders pose. Signed by the artist in fountain pen ink with his name alone to a light area at the base of the image. With the photographer´s imprint to the lower mount and verso. One slight, minor crease to the upper edge, otherwise VG

Jacques Pilartz (1836–1910) German portrait photographer of high society figures. Pilartz held the prestigious titles of Hofphotograph (Court Photographer) and Hoflieferant (Purveyor to the Court) for several German and European monarchs, and was famously known as the favourite photographer of Otto von Bismarck, the first Chancellor of the German Empire, who sat for him numerous times during his annual visits to the spa at Bad Kissingen.