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Appraisement by Louis Moeller

Louis Moeller · 1888-01-01

Louis Moeller's 1894 oil painting, Appraisement, now at The Metropolitan Museum of Art, captures a focused business discussion. The most striking aspect is Moeller's dramatic use of chiaroscuro, contrasting light and dark to build atmosphere and model the figures.

Notice the seated man, leaning in to listen intently, his ear highlighted. The standing man uses his finger to emphasize a point, while papers are strewn across the floor, suggesting the intensity of the appraisal.

Moeller, born in New York City, often depicted genre scenes. Appraisement showcases his skill in creating a realistic interior and conveying the tension of a private, business-related deliberation.

What do you think these men are appraising?

Details

A business deal is happening here.
A business deal is happening here.
Look at the man seated, leaning in.
Look at the man seated, leaning in.
Papers are scattered on the floor.
Papers are scattered on the floor.
Transcript

A business deal is happening here. The artist used light and dark to sculpt the scene. Look at the man seated, leaning in. He's intensely focused on the appraisal. The standing man points to emphasize his words. Papers are scattered on the floor. Moeller painted this in 1894.