Prater, c. 1919

Carl Moll (1861–1945) studied with Emil Jakob Schindler (1842–1892), the most eminent exponent of Atmospheric Impressionism – a term used to denote Austrian plein-air painting during the last quarter of the 19th century. Inspired by the French Barbizon School, the painters placed a particular emphasis on weather and lighting conditions and atmospheric moods, thus creating high-quality landscape paintings. The artists found their motifs in the environs of Vienna, as in this instance at the Prater. Moll depicts a sunny day at the Prater, a local recreational area for the Viennese. Sunrays penetrate the treetops and draw patterns on the path which leads into the depth of the painting. A few promenaders are enjoying the beautiful day. The rendering boasts powerful brushstrokes and strong colors – both typical features of Moll’s late style of painting.

BL, 2021