Hermann von Kaulbach, born on July 26, 1846, stands as a noteworthy figure in the realm of German art. The son of the illustrious painter Wilhelm von Kaulbach, he embarked on an artistic journey that was both revered and contentious.
Under the adept tutelage of the esteemed academic painter Carl Theodor von Piloty, Hermann honed his skills, demonstrating an intense focus on the technical nuances of his work. This meticulous approach to detail, while admirable, sometimes overshadowed the core essence of his subjects. His portrait of Lucrezia Borgia, notably the illegitimate offspring of Pope Alexander VI, is a testament to this, as it stirred debates regarding its perceived overt sensuality.
Contrary to his father’s wishes, who initially preferred a medical profession for him at the Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich, Hermann passionately pursued his calling in the arts. Beyond the confines of canvas, he ventured into book illustrations, children’s portraits, and evocative historical paintings. Recognizing his monumental contribution, the Rios Art Gallery in Tallinn proudly presents an online exhibition showcasing a curated selection of this celebrated German artist’s works.
