Zwei junge Schwarzwaldbauern, der linke im Profil, der rechte von vorne c. 1771 - 1772

Georg Melchior Kraus made this drawing of two young Black Forest farmers using pen and watercolor. Made in Germany, this artwork offers a glimpse into the burgeoning interest in rural life that marked the late 18th century. Here, the artist documents the dress of the farmers in a sympathetic if slightly caricatured manner. The Black Forest at this time was undergoing significant social and economic change, and images like this reflect a broader cultural interest in the lives of ordinary people. Kraus’s drawing also reflects changes in the art world itself. As academies of art became more prominent, artists turned to direct observation and the recording of social types as sources of inspiration. We can see the influence of these institutions in Kraus's careful attention to detail and his attempt to create a naturalistic representation. By studying the social and institutional context in which art is made, we can gain a deeper understanding of its meaning and significance. Historical sources such as letters, diaries, and newspapers can provide valuable insights into the world in which Kraus lived and worked, shedding light on the cultural forces that shaped his art.