August Xaver Carl von Pettenkofen - Hongaarse boeren verfrissen zich aan een waterplas - SA 1649 - Amsterdam Museum

August von Pettenkofen (1822-1889) was an Austrian painter. He studied at the Academy of Fine Arts in Vienna and later travelled to Italy and France to study the works of the Old Masters. On his return to Austria, Pettenkofen became a member of the Vienna Künstlerhaus and began to exhibit his paintings, which often depicted peasants, gypsies and other rural figures in naturalistic settings. He was also known for his portraits and landscapes, which were characterised by their attention to detail and use of light and shadow. Pettenkofen's work was well received during his lifetime and he received numerous awards and honours for his contribution to Austrian art. Today his paintings can be found in museums and private collections throughout Europe and the United States.