Two friends

Max Volkhart, a distinguished German genre painter and etcher, was born on October 17, 1848, in Düsseldorf, where he also passed away on March 29, 1924. As the son of painter Wilhelm Volkhart, he was immersed in the arts from an early age, pursuing his education at the prestigious Königlich-Preußische Kunstakademie in Düsseldorf. There, he studied under the tutelage of Heinrich Lauenstein, Andreas Müller, and Julius Roeting, later refining his skills privately with Eduard von Gebhardt. Volkhart's early works, including a notable depiction of a dressing station in Gravelotte, were produced under Gebhardt's guidance, showcasing his burgeoning talent. Volkhart's artistic journey took him beyond Germany, with extended stays in Belgium and the Netherlands, where he drew inspiration from nature and local scenes. His 1881 panorama in Rotterdam, illustrating the Prince of Orange's victory over the Spanish in the Battle of Nieuwpoort, stands as a testament to his skill in capturing historical narratives. Beyond his artistic endeavors, Volkhart was an active member of the Düsseldorfer Ruderverein and the Künstlerverein Malkasten, participating in various cultural and sporting events. His oeuvre, characterized by meticulous brushwork and a deep reverence for the Dutch masters, includes celebrated works such as 'Audienz' and 'Ein Rauchkollegium', reflecting his ability to weave simplicity with the essence of the times he depicted.