Hauling Wood in Winter, 1903

Ferdinand Andri (1871–1956) was an Austrian artist of repute in the areas of painting, lithography, and sculpture. His works are informed by rural and traditional subjects, which he rendered in strong colors and vigorous brushwork. In this depiction of a haul of wood on a sled drawn by a heavy horse, he confines himself to only two colors: white for the horse and the snow, many shades of brown for the landscape, the load of wood, and the bridle. As it is a downward sled ride, the farmer has to try hard to hold the load in place. Lying across the sled, he uses all his strength to secure the heavy tree trunks. Bringing them down safely takes great care from man and animal alike.

BL, 2021