[From the Community Collection, a public trust in Agincourt, Iowa]

RUZICKA-LAUTENSCHLÄGER, Hans [1862–1933]

Cityscape / Tightrope Walker / Seiltänzer

oil on canvas / 5 inches by 7 inches / signed

pre-1900

Austrian artist Hans Růžička-Lautenschläger is recognized for his land- and cityscapes, painted in Italy, Austria, and elsewhere. His work in a late-Impressionist style has been mentioned favorably in several Austrian art journals, such as Der Merker. He exhibited in Vienna and Munich — and now in Agincourt.¹ This petite work emigrated to the United States with members of the Wasserman family, who settled in Agincourt in 1900.

“Tightrope Walker” may be a study for an intended larger work; it was likely painted at the scene. Despite the speed of execution, however — capturing the energy of the moment — there is little doubt of the wonder experienced by the spectators.

Hans Růžička-Lautenschläger / “View of the Pantheon in Rome”

Hans Růžička-Lautenschläger / “The ferris wheel in the Prater in Vienna by night”

¹ An inquiry has been made to the Kunsthistorisches Museum Wien.