Bidspirit auction | Alfred Mendler (1879, Riedlingen -

Alfred Mendler (1879, Riedlingen - 1955, Ulm) - Portrait of a Gentleman, 1921 - Alfred Mendler (1879, Riedlingen - 1955, Ulm) - Portrait of a Gentleman, 1921 Oil on canvas. Signed and dated ”A. Mendler 21” on the right edge. In the original black lacquer frame. Frame size 80 x 70 cm. Early work from the remaining estate of the former artists' house in Ulm (Hafengasse). Born in Riedlingen, Mendler showed artistic talent at an early age, which was recognised and encouraged by his drawing teacher Theodor Schnell. At his father's request, he studied medicine in several cities from 1898 onwards and received his doctorate in 1904. He specialised in surgery and orthopaedics, settled in Ulm as a doctor in 1905 and founded the ”Johanneum” private clinic there in 1911. He served as a military doctor in both world wars and was chief surgeon at the Ulm military hospital during the Second World War. At the same time, Mendler discovered painting after the First World War and developed as a self-taught artist, influenced above all by Leo Putz, Carl and Maria Caspar-Filser. Many of his works were lost during the war. He was awarded the title of professor in 1949 for his medical services. He retired in 1954. Mendler was also known for his legendary, often ribald humour.