(Würzburg 1876–1966 Montreal)
Society in the Park, signed and dated J. Oppenheimer 1909, on the reverse old title and inscription “J. Oppenheimer... afternoon in Hyde Park”, oil on canvas, 43.5 x 55.5 cm, framed, (Rei)

The versatile painter Josef Oppenheimer, who worked both in Germany and England, demonstrated a wide-ranging repertoire. Initially influenced by the Munich School, itself primarily shaped by Franz Lenbach and Wilhelm Leibl, his early works were of the Realist style. French Impressionism also had a significant impact on his painting; its influence was visible even though his choice of colour was occassionally at variance with the soft colours of this style and he turned to much stronger brown or black tones. He became acquainted with en plein air landscape painting during journeys to Italy and this would become an important part of his œuvre. Yet Oppenheimer was no hostage to a single style, with expressionist elements also entering his works. Family links in England, Germany and the USA secured him a wide range of customers and numerous commissions. Oppenheimer was awarded both the Gold Medal at the Munich International Exhibition and the Bronze Medal at the International Exhibition in Barcelona. He was a member of the Berlin Secession as well as art associations in England and Germany.