Zwei einander umschlingende Bauernmädchen in Rückenansicht c. 1771 - 1772

Georg Melchior Kraus made this ink wash drawing, entitled "Two Peasant Girls Embracing, Seen From Behind," around the late 18th century. The image presents us with a glimpse into the lives of ordinary people during a time of significant social change. Kraus was working in Germany during the Enlightenment, when there was a growing interest in representing the everyday experiences of common folk. By depicting these young women in a moment of intimate embrace, Kraus challenges the traditional norms of portraiture. Usually, art institutions prioritized depictions of the wealthy and powerful. We can understand Kraus's choice of subject matter and style as a reflection of the changing social attitudes of his time. To truly understand this image, scholars consult historical documents, such as letters and diaries. We examine the wider social and institutional context in which it was created, exploring the complex interplay between art and society.