Die Werbung 1900

Franz von Defregger painted this genre scene, titled "Die Werbung," in the late 19th century, capturing a moment of negotiation or proposal within a rural Austrian setting. The painting offers a glimpse into the social customs surrounding marriage. The young woman and man at the table are at the center of the scene, their joined hands suggesting a union being considered. The surrounding figures appear to be family members, engaged in a discussion, presumably about the terms of the arrangement. Defregger's attention to detail in depicting traditional clothing and the interior of the home provides insight into the cultural values and economic realities of the time. The scene speaks to the communal nature of decision-making within rural families and hints at the economic considerations that often played a role in marital unions. By studying the clothing, architecture, and customs of the time, we can better understand the social and economic context in which this scene unfolds.