Peter Copmann (1794-1850) was a Danish artist who studied at the Academy of Fine Arts in Copenhagen and is particularly known for his works in pastel. He immigrated to the United States in 1834 working first in Brooklyn then heading south, working in Charleston, South Carolina in 1835, then on to New Orleans (active there in 1837) and was in Louisville in 1848. He died in Basseterre, Guadeloupe in 1850. He advertised his services in the city directories and his works were reviewed by local newspapers, such as the Charleston Courier, which not only praised his talents but also for discovering a fixative for pastel paintings. His work is in the Royal Collection in Copenhagen.

This pair of paintings is signed and dated 1838. Although the sitters are not identified, based upon the biographical information available for Copmann, they are likely a husband and wife from New Orleans.

Pastel, in their original frames and glass (please excuse the reflections in the images), 29 by 24 inches (framed), 1838.

$4,200