Sheep in a Barn
1885
Cows in the Moor
1908
Artist Spotlight: Heinrich Von Zugel
Introduction
Heinrich Von Zügel (1850 – 1941) was a German impressionist painter from humble beginnings. The son of a shepherd, he displayed remarkable artistic talent by the young age of 10. His passion and inclination for art led him to attend the renowned State Academy of Fine Art in Stuttgart (Stuttgart Kunstakademie) at age of 17 in 1867.
Artistic Breakthrough
By 1870, just three years into university, Von Zügel had gained recognition from his colleagues for his adept portrayal of sheep anatomy. His style continuously stretched evolved into the realm of impressionism, and his mastery of subject matter extended to farm animals and landscapes. His developed paintings are recognized by the clever use of light and shadows which capture the essence of nature, sunlight and atmosphere.
"Heavy Work"
The heart of Von Zügel’s portfolio lies in his iconic “Heavy Work” series, a collection vividly illustrating the toil of horses and oxen in plowing fields. Shaped by his pastoral upbringing, these artworks resonate with a profound connection to the symbiotic relationship between man and animal, coupled with an appreciation for nature and hard labor.
Critical Acclaim
In 1909, “The International Studio, An Illustrated Magazine of Fine and Applied Art, Volume 36” hailed Von Zügel as having significant talent, stating: “Zugel stands without comparison among the great animal painters of our time. He is approaching old age, and yet his development is progressive; his style is growing into real monumentality.”
Cows in a Field
1910
Hunting Piece with a Roebuck
1911
Lasting Legacy
Von Zügel’s illustrious career reached new heights when he assumed the role of a professor at the Royal Munich Academy of Fine Arts in 1895, a position he held until his retirement in 1922. Even in his 80s, he continued to wield the brush, leaving behind a substantial collection of drawings and paintings.