Hermann Frobenius Paintings


Hermann Frobenius was a German businessman and art collector rather than an artist. Born on October 17, 1841, in Oberneuland, a district of Bremen, he was not known for creating art but for his significant contributions to the art world through his extensive collections and patronage. His son, Leo Frobenius, would later become a well-known ethnologist and archaeologist.

Hermann Frobenius made his fortune in the trading and shipping business, which allowed him to amass a considerable collection of art and artifacts. Frobenius was known for his deep interest in culture and the arts, a passion he transmitted to his son. While there is not an extensive biographical focus on his life as a collector, it is known that his wealth and interests had a substantial impact on the cultural scene of his time.

Upon his death on April 16, 1916, Hermann Frobenius left behind a legacy that would be carried on by his son, who was profoundly influenced by his father's interests. Leo Frobenius became a prominent figure, known for his work in the field of cultural anthropology, and he often cited the influence of his father's collection and intellectual milieu in shaping his own scholarly pursuits.

In summary, while Hermann Frobenius was not an artist himself, he played a role in the art world of his era as a collector and patron. His contributions would indirectly leave a mark on the academic world through the work of his son, Leo Frobenius, whose explorations into African cultures and civilizations were partly inspired by the environment Hermann Frobenius provided.