Johannes Brahms (1833-1897)

Think that you may own a portrait of composer Johannes Brahms? We authenticate, appraise, research and issue certificates of authenticity (COA) and provide consultations for all portraits of Johannes Brahms.

Brahms was a German composer from the Romantic Period, famous for his “Brahms Lullaby.” There are no known authenticated portraits of Brahms, which is unusual because of Brahms great fame. However, there are a few portraits in question.

Photograph of Johannes Brahms

Portrait #1 was painted by Rudolf Klingsbögl. The date on the portrait is unknown. Klingsbögl was an Austrian artist born in 1881. It is possible but unlikely that he painted the portrait while Brahms was alive.

Brahms by Rudolph Klingsbögl, date unknown

Also of great interest in Portrait #2. This portrait was painted by Hermann Torggler. The date of the painting is unknown. Torggler was born in 1878 and died in 1939. It is possible that he painted the portrait while Brahms was living, but also unlikely.

Brahms by Hermann Torggler, date unknown.

There are a few post mortem portraits to mention. R. Konopa painted a portrait of Brahms depicting the composer in heaven with previous composers behind him in the clouds. Franz Rumpf and N. Piontkovsky both painted portraits of the composer after he died.

Are there any original and authentic portraits of the great composer Brahms in existence? Only time will tell. Still wondering about a 19th century portrait in your family collection? Contact us... it could be of Johannes Brahms.