Die Pfändung 1847

Ferdinand Georg Waldmüller's 1847 painting "Die Pfändung" depicts a poignant scene of rural life in Austria. The artist captures the emotional turmoil of a family facing the seizure of their livestock by a bailiff, a common occurrence in the 19th century. The scene is filled with expressions of despair and resignation, emphasizing the harsh realities of poverty and the vulnerability of rural communities. The detailed depiction of the animals, including a cow and goat, adds to the poignancy of the scene, illustrating the loss of livelihood and the impact on the family's survival. The painting is a powerful commentary on social inequality and the challenges faced by ordinary people in 19th-century Austria.