04 | This lithograph dates from 1859 and was inspired by the Alois Schönn painting ‘Drei Zigeuner’ [‘Three gypsies’]. The motif is based on Nikolaus Lenau’s popular poem ‘Die drei Zigeuner’ [‘The three gypsies’], published in 1838. The sleeping, smoking and violin-playing ‘gypsies’ symbolise a seemingly carefree, indolent existence. The three figures also represent a counter-narrative to middle-class ideals such as diligence and forethought.

Wien Museum, Inv. No. 99.724/2