Karl Kaufmann, also known as Carl Kaufmann, was an Austrian landscape and architectural painter, born on May 14, 1843, in Neuplachowitz in the Austrian Empire (now in the Czech Republic). He is particularly known for his depictions of various cities and landscapes during the late 19th century. Kaufmann studied at the Academy of Fine Arts Vienna and was influenced by the Biedermeier style, which was prevalent in Austrian art during his formative years.
Throughout his career, Kaufmann often used the pseudonym 'Karl Lorens' to sign his works. He was a prolific artist and his paintings include a wide range of subjects, from European cityscapes to scenes of the Near East and North Africa. Cities like Venice, Rome, and Constantinople were frequently depicted in his works, showcasing his interest in capturing the essence of different cultures and architectural styles. Kaufmann's work was characterized by its detailed and realistic portrayal of these places, often with a romantic or idyllic quality.
Kaufmann's paintings were quite popular during his lifetime and found a significant audience among tourists and art collectors who were fascinated by exotic locations and travel. Despite his popularity, there is relatively limited scholarly research on Kaufmann's life and work, and he remains less well-known than some of his contemporaries. Nevertheless, his paintings are still appreciated for their historical value and aesthetic appeal.
Karl Kaufmann died on December 28, 1905, in Vienna. His works continue to be collected and exhibited, contributing to the understanding of the 19th-century European art scene, particularly in the genre of landscape and architectural painting.