Carl Gustav Adolf Closs was a German painter and illustrator during the late 19th and early 20th century. Born to an artistic family, Closs was the son of a wood engraver and studied art at a young age.
Not Just Painting
Initially Closs followed in his father’s footsteps and began illustrating books with wood engravings, however this was just a means to an end. His true passion was painting. He had no problem with scale and painted a variety murals (most of which were lost during the wars of the 20th century). Closs was also a history & heraldry buff and that passion is evident in much of his work. He was considered to be among the best heralds of his time.
Although horses aren’t his primary subjects, he captures them with a masterful simplicity and effectively conveys their motion.
Picking Favorites
I have to admit, selecting my favorite piece is the best part of writing one of these art posts. Sometimes it’s easier than others and this week is a toughie, but I think it has to be Guard Regiment. I love the suggestion of steam from the horses nostrils and the poised but just-for-this-moment feel of the horse in front.