Johann Ludwig Ernst Morgenstern (Rudolstadt 1738-1819 Frankfurt), The interior of a Gothic cathedral by torch- and candlelight

signed, inscribed, and dated 'J.L.E. Morgenstern Francofort 1785' (lower left, on a pier); oil on copper; 20 x 17¼ in. (50.8 x 43.8 cm.). Est. £12,000 - £18,000. Lot sold £15,000

Provenance: Maximilian Freiherr Speck von Sternburg (1776-1856), Leipzig, until 1 March 1824, when it passed to
Gottlob Carl Springsfeld (d. 1870), Aachen, and by inheritance in Aachen until at least 1933 (according to an old label on the reverse).

Notes: Maximilian Freiherr Speck von Sternburg formed one of the most celebrated art collections in Saxony, the greater part of which remains intact in the Museum der bildenden Künste, Leipzig.

Christie's. Old Master Pictures. 24 April 2009. London, King Street www.christies.com Photo: Christie's Images Ltd 2009