Edoard Schleich Paintings

Eduard Schleich, often referred to as Eduard Schleich the Elder to distinguish him from his son, Eduard Schleich the Younger, was a 19th-century German landscape painter associated with the Munich School, a group of artists who in the mid-19th century sought to move away from the formal academic art style and towards a more naturalistic representation. Born on October 15, 1812, in Vilsbiburg, Bavaria, Schleich displayed an early inclination towards the arts.

Initially, Schleich did not receive formal training; he was self-taught and began his painting career without the guidance of a master. His early works were influenced by the Dutch landscape painters of the 17th century, whose works he could study in Munich. It was not until 1834 that Schleich traveled to Paris to study, although his stay was brief. He returned to Munich to continue his artistic journey, where he would come to play an integral role in the Munich School. His style evolved to capture the atmospheric mood of the landscape, focusing on the interplay of light and shadow, which became a hallmark of his work.

In the 1850s, Schleich became acquainted with fellow artists who would greatly influence his work, such as Carl Rottmann and Wilhelm von Kobell. Under their influence, his style further developed, and he began to gain recognition for his distinctive approach to landscape painting, characterized by a romantic yet realistic portrayal of nature. He traveled extensively throughout Bavaria, the Alps, and Italy, drawing inspiration from the varied landscapes he encountered.

Schleich's contribution to art was not only in his paintings but also in his role as a mentor and influencer among fellow artists. His works were exhibited in Munich and other German cities, and he received various honors, including an appointment as an honorary member of the Munich Academy. He continued to paint and inspire until his death on December 13, 1874, in Munich. Today his works are considered significant in the canon of German 19th-century landscape painting and can be found in various art galleries and private collections around the world.