Johann Berthelsen (1883-1972)
Brooklyn Bridge, New York
oil on canvasboard
16 x 12 inches
24 x 20 inches (frame)
signed lower right: Johann Berthelsen
verso: label, Simpson Galleries, Houston, Texas

Born in Copenhagen, Johann Berthelsen’s parents moved in artistic and professional circles. He later began a friendship with the painter, Wayman Adams. In 1920, seeking to advance their careers, Berthelsen and Adams moved to New York, where both achieved rapid success. Berthelsen is most known for his poetic painterly renditions of New York City. His special interest was the early winter months…he was particularly fascinated with the subtle range of colors and the softening of hard contours effected by falling snow. This painting is significant due to its subject matter, a favorite of the artist, depicting the Brooklyn Bridge Tower and James Slip Gospel Mission, the brown and green buildings also known by Berthelsen as the “Old Sailor’s Home”.

The painting appears to be in good condition. Under UV examination, there is no evidence of restoration or inpainting.