Portrait of a peasant in a hat 1861

Franz von Lenbach painted this portrait of a peasant in a hat with oil on canvas. Lenbach wasn't just capturing a likeness; he was using his mastery of the medium to say something about the man's life. Look at the way he handles the oil paint. The brushstrokes are loose, almost rough, particularly in the peasant's weathered face and worn clothing. This isn't about idealizing the sitter; it's about showing the effects of hard labor. The somber palette, dominated by browns and grays, reinforces this sense of hardship. There's a realness here, a connection to the land and the daily grind of rural life. In that respect, the painting isn't just a portrait, it's a social document. It reminds us that art can be a powerful tool for recognizing the dignity of everyday people and the value of their work.