Forest Meadow» (1876) Hans Thoma (1839-1924)

"Forest Meadow" by Hans Thoma, painted in 1876, depicts a serene landscape with a woman picking flowers in a meadow. The model is Cella Berteneder, who became Thoma's wife a year later. Despite studying with various masters, Thoma's style remained unique, influenced by early German masters like Albrecht Altdorfer and Lucas Cranach the Elder. His works often reflect the idyllic life of his native district, characterized by precise outlines and local coloring. His career saw periods of indifference before gaining recognition with an exhibition of his works in Munich. He produced numerous paintings, lithographs, pen drawings, and decorative murals. Thoma's art was later favored by the Nazis during the Third Reich, with several pieces acquired for Adolf Hitler's planned Führermuseum. Despite this dark association, Thoma's works continue to be appreciated for their beauty.