Peasant couple c. 1771 - 1772

Georg Melchior Kraus created this watercolor, titled "Peasant Couple," reflecting the social and cultural context of 18th-century Europe, where the lives of the working class were increasingly observed and documented. In this period, class distinctions shaped daily life and social interactions. Kraus captures a sense of the couple’s identity through their clothing and posture, offering a glimpse into their lived experiences and the roles they occupied in society. The woman leans on what looks like a walking stick, perhaps showing the hard work and toil that were typical of peasant life. This work invites us to consider the emotional and physical realities of those who lived and worked on the margins of society, capturing the individuals' resilience and endurance amidst hardship. It reminds us of the stories and struggles of those often overlooked in history.