Peter Herkenrath worked and lived in Cologne and Cipressa, Italy. He was born 1900 in Cologne and died 1992 in Mainz. Herkenrath was self-taught. He became famous for his portraits of Theodor Heuss, Konrad Adenauer and Gustav Heinemann. In 1965 he was awarded the great art prize of the city of Cologne, the Federal Cross of Merit and was appointed professor for life. His work continues to have an effect through intensive care of his estate today.