The Coachman Jöns

Franz Schwartz was an extremely prolific portrait painter who received a huge number of commissions throughout his career. Broad brush strokes, a brown colour palette and dimmed lighting were used in the painting of this portrait of the aging teamster named Jöns. Schwartz’s refined ability to peer within his models and portray not only their appearance, but also their emotions is evidenced here in the intense look of the teamster, suggesting a long and laborious life where he has nevertheless retained his dignity. He is wearing a meritorious award on his thick wool coat, reflecting his many years of service.