Der Pflüger 1920

"Der Pflüger" (The Ploughman) is a painting by the Austrian artist Albin Egger-Lienz from 1920. It depicts a farmer, seen from the back, carrying a yoke with two oxen over his shoulders, set against a simple, earthy background. Egger-Lienz was known for his depictions of Tyrolean life and his works often extolled the virtues of hard work and resilience. This painting captures the dignity and strength of the farmer, embodying the traditional values and the simple beauty of rural life that were central to Egger-Lienz's artistic vision. The painting was created during a period of significant social and economic upheaval in Europe, and its themes of hard work and enduring spirit resonated with the changing times. The use of earthy tones in the painting, particularly in the background, creates a sense of connection to the land and the farmer's place within it.