An artist called "Ritter"?

Question

My parents have given me an old oil painting on wood that they had in their attic. It is of a young serving girl in wooden clogs holding a jug and looks very old; similar to a 16th century Dutch artist. The signature looks like Ritter or Ritte but I cannot find anyone by that name. Has anyone heard of this name?

Answer 1

Hi! I've been looking.. and I think this is bigger than both of us.. ha! I've found:

Caspar Ritter http://www.askart.com/askart/artist.aspx?artist=11065174
Eduard Ritter http://www.askart.com/askart/artist.aspx?artist=11065177
Louis Ritter http://www.artres.com/c/htm/CSearchZ.aspx?o=&Total=10&FP=14075587&E=22SIJMYPW4P5X&SID=JMGEJNTBAM0GC&Pic=5&SubE=2UNTWA0H15JA
Wilhelm Georges Ritter (1850 - 1926)
Laszlo Ritter......... just for starters... and at least 20 more in reference books... but nothing with "Ritte." And... we are still assuming it is, in fact, "Ritter" rather than something else. So.. what I would suggest, if none of these knocks you off your chair, is to take some good photos of it..... one of the signature... the reverse, etc. and contact one of the major auction houses: Sotheby's, Christies, Bonham's, etc., or a fine arts appraiser from one of the reputable organizations (Appraisers Association of America, etc.), and ask for advice. The fact that it is on panel would lead one to believe it may be of some value. I would love to help you more but as this is lacking a first name, I could not presume to guess which of these artists it could possibly be....darn, wish that I could!
I wish you so much good luck!