At Lake Garda (1892 CE)

Hans Thoma’s “Am Gardasee” (At Lake Garda), painted in 1892, captures an idyllic landscape scene filled with lush greenery. Two women, dressed in striking red attire, are seated among dense trees, surrounded by a tranquil, almost mystical atmosphere. Rather than directly depicting Lake Garda, the painting embodies an idealized vision of Italian nature, evoking a peaceful and pastoral setting.

“Am Gardasee” was created in 1892, a period when artists like Thoma were deeply influenced by romantic ideals and sought to encapsulate the serene beauty of nature. Thoma, known for his admiration of both German and Italian landscapes, paid homage to the natural beauty of Italy in this work, aligning with the romantic movement’s idealization of the natural world. The painting now resides in the collection of the Dallas Museum of Art, representing European landscape painting of the late 19th century.

While the identities of the women are not specified, they are thought to be symbolic figures, embodying harmony with nature, a common theme in 19th-century landscape art. Thoma often incorporated figures as representations rather than specific individuals, enhancing the universal appeal of his idealized landscapes.

“Am Gardasee” illustrates Thoma’s reverence for the Italian countryside and highlights the era’s romanticized view of nature. The work is not a direct representation of Lake Garda but rather a symbolic reflection of the beauty Thoma experienced in Italy. This piece typifies the pastoral theme, celebrating a deep connection between humanity and nature, emphasizing nature’s calm and mysterious allure.

The painting measures 71.8 by 99.1 cm (28 1/4 by 39 inches) and was executed in oil on canvas, a technique Hans Thoma favored for its ability to capture intricate color variations and subtle shifts in light. This choice of medium allowed Thoma to convey the rich textures and depth of the landscape, enhancing the serene, almost dreamlike quality of the scene.

“Am Gardasee” is part of the Dallas Museum of Art’s collection, acquired with the support of the Mrs. John B. O’Hara Fund. This acquisition enriched the museum’s European collection, specifically its representation of late 19th-century landscapes.