Painted in 1874 by the noted American artist Alfred L. Wiggin (1823-1883), this remarkable portrait in oils of Ludwig van Beethoven exhibits superb technical mastery. While fully capturing the intensity of the composer, a reflective and warmly human side is also seen, qualities only rarely encountered in the brooding or titanic images usually associated with Beethoven. This utterly unique and expressive painting measures 19 1/2" x 24 1/2" and is mounted in a period wood gilt frame to an overall dimension of 25 1/2" x 30 1/2". The painting was professionally relined in 1976, and copies of the invoice and pre-storation photos are included. Surface crazing adds authenticity to this 130 year-old masterpiece.