The Milkmaid and the Hunter, oil on canvas, 55 cm x 78 cm, signed, relined, partially retouched.
Hugo Mühlig certainly came to art through his own family. His father and uncle were already well-known painters of the 19th century. However, he not only learned about painting, composition and the successful application of paint from them, but also at the Dresden Art Academy. His studies were followed by a move to Düsseldorf, which also brought about a change in the artist's painting style. As in the present painting, Mühlig was concerned with the subject of harvesting farmers, hunters or walkers. Whether in the field or on the forest path, the entire natural environment as well as the lighting mood is characteristic of his works. In addition, Hugo Mühlig's skilful use of the horizon creates an effect of depth that the viewer's eye wants to follow. The characteristics of the weather prevailing in the painting, such as the slight coolness of the wind and the damp soil, can also be sensed, as can the mostly serene mood of the figures appearing, despite the work in the field, which should not be underestimated.
