6 - Johann Daniel HEIMLICH (1740–1796)

Johann Daniel HEIMLICH (1740–1796) Pastoral Scene Watercolor on paper, signed upper left. H_18 cm W_30.5 cm Painter, draftsman, engraver, and miniaturist, Johann Daniel HEIMLICH (1740–1796) was part of the Strasbourg artistic circle that, in the second half of the 18th century, contributed to the renewal of regional painting under the influence of the French and Dutch schools. His work is of particular interest to the history of Alsatian art, as it combines portraits of the local bourgeoisie, picturesque landscapes, pastoral scenes, and prints depicting Strasbourg and its surroundings. In 1756, HEIMLICH began an apprenticeship with the Tribu de l’Échasse, a Strasbourg guild to which painters, among others, belonged. He continued his training in Paris, likely between 1759 and 1765. Although little is known about this stay in Paris, it was important for understanding his career: it allowed him to discover French artistic movements and the practices of the capital’s studios. He returned to Strasbourg in 1772, the year in which he earned his master’s certificate from the Tribu de l’Échasse. He was then able to officially practice his art in his hometown. Most of his work is now housed at the Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art of the City of Strasbourg (MAMCS). Related works: A pastoral scene similar to ours, both in technique and dimensions, sold for 3,224 euros at the May 15, 2026, auction held by DuMouchelles in the United States. A *Moonlit Landscape* in gouache on paper, similar to our work, is held at the Fondation Custodia in Paris, under inventory number 1059.