Émile Schuffenecker
(1851-1934)

Think that you may own a painting by Émile Schuffenecker? We authenticate, appraise, research and issue Certificates of Authenticity (COA) and provide consultations for all paintings by Émile Schuffenecker.

Emile Schuffenecker was a French, Post-Impressionist painter known for his involvement in the Pont Aven School and establishing the Volpini exhibition in 1889. Schuffenecker is often regarded in a controversial light, due to rumors that he imitated the work of other French artists.

Schuffenecker was born in Fèsne Saint-Mamès, France, but moved to Meudon shortly after the premature death of his father. Schuffenecker spent many of his early years in the company of his aunt and uncle in Paris, while studying in Christian schools. Schuffenecker was first employed at his uncle’s coffee roasting company in the Les Halles quarter of Paris.

By 1872, Schuffenecker was becoming involved in the local painting circles and developed a friendship with Paul Gauguin. Both Schuffenecker and Gauguin studied at the Academie Suisse and the Academie Colarossi.

In 1884, after being rejected from the Paris Salon, Schuffenecker joined the Société des Artistes Indépendants. He also exhibited in the final Impressionist exhibition in 1886.

In search of financial stability, Shuffenecker earned his teaching degree and gained employment at the Lycée Michelet in Vanves. Schuffenecker continued to teach steadily until 1914.

The Schuffenecker family gained a great deal of publicity after being the subjects of a Gauguin painting. It is rumored however that Gauguin and Schuffenecker had a rocky friendship throughout the years that they knew each other.

Many art critics believe Schuffenecker copied works by Vincent Van Gogh. It is known thorugh sketches and drawings that Schuffenecker was greatly influenced by Van Gogh and enjoyed imitating his work. It is unknown whether Schuffenecker actually forged Van Gogh’s signature on certain pieces, or if later collectors are to blame.

Despite the negative rumors surrounding Schuffenecker, five of his paintings are featured at the Musée D’Orsay in Paris, among other major collections. Do you think you own a painting by Emile Schuffenecker? Contact us. We are the experts on Emile Schuffenecker.