Overfather

With its unusually large format and elaborate staging, the painting testifies to the self-confidence of a painter. Wilhelm Lindenschmit der Ältere had already gained recognition with his recently completed murals in Hohenschwangau Palace.

In the 19th century, such a format was normally only reserved for portraits of rulers. The painting has been carefully composed: In the center of the picture, the couple place their hands together as a sign of their bond. They are surrounded by their six children, with the youngest on the left lying as an infant in a basket by the stove.

Lindenschmit himself looks proudly out of the picture as the father of a family. Behind him we can see an easel with a canvas that identifies him as an artist. But there are also books that demonstrate his interest in science.

He demonstrates his painting skills in his lively portraits of children, which are more vivid than many other Biedermeier family portraits of the time.