Antón Goering

1836 - 1905

Essentials

  • Art period: 19th Century
  • Top 3 works:
    • Flamingos in a Lake, Venezuela
    • The Cordillera, Venezuela, with Travelers on a Road
  • Works on this site: 2
  • Lifespan: 69 years
  • Nationality: Germany

A Naturalist's Vision in Venezuela

Christian Anton Goering was a German naturalist, painter, and graphic artist who dedicated much of his life to the exploration of South America. After learning taxidermy from his father, he worked at the Ornithological Museum of the University of Halle. His travels took him through South America between 1856 and 1858, eventually leading him to Venezuela in 1866. Arriving at the port of Carúpano, he spent years collecting zoological specimens and Pre-Columbian artifacts. His expeditions included exploring the Cueva del Guácharo to collect specimens of the oilbird and traveling through central Venezuela.

During his time in the Andes from 1869 to 1872, Goering captured the essence of the landscape through watercolors, including depictions of a natural bridge discovered in Mérida. He was a key figure in the artistic community of Caracas, where he co-founded the Exposición Anual de Bellas Artes Venezolanas with James Mudie Spence. His extensive observations and drawings were later compiled into the work Von Tropische tieflande zum ewigen schnee.

Artistic and Scientific Legacy

Goering's body of work reflects a deep intersection of science and art. His catalog includes notable depictions such as:

His contributions to natural history were recognized by several institutions, including the Zoological Society of London. In recognition of his achievements, Duke Ernst I of Saxe-Altenburg named him a Professor and awarded him the Saxe-Ernestine House Order. His legacy remains tied to the landscapes and species he documented, including a gallery in the Cueva del Guácharo named in his honor.

Questions & Answers

Which artworks by Antón Goering are the most viewed?

Statistics about Antón Goering's works are available on the artist's Stats page.

Where can I see Antón Goering's artworks in a 3D gallery?

Antón Goering's artworks can be seen in a 3D gallery on the artist's 3D Museum page.

Where can I see all artworks by Antón Goering?

Every work by Antón Goering on this website can be browsed from the artist's All Artworks page.

Where is Antón Goering from?

Antón Goering was born in Germany.

Test your eye

There is only one correct answer for each question.

Question 1:
In which country did Antón Goering spend several years collecting specimens?
Question 2:
Which person helped Goering obtain a position at the Ornithological Museum of the University of Halle?
Question 3:
What did Goering explore in the Cueva del Guácharo in 1867?
Question 4:
What was the title of the work published in 1893 based on his notes and drawings?
Question 5:
Which English spelunker did Goering collaborate with to create an artistic salon?