DEÁK-ÉBNER, LAJOS (1850–1934)

On the Road, 1876–1880

oil on paperboard, 58.5x45 cm; marking at the bottom right: L. Ébner Párizs
Fine Arts Collection, Inv. No.: 74.72.

The 1873 World Exhibition in Vienna was a major turn of events for several Hungarian artists. The contemporary French paintings showcased in the art pavilion had a huge impact on all attendees. This event inspired Lajos Deák-Ébner as well, who turned his back on the academy in Munich and travelled to Paris instead. Although he lived in France until 1887, he remained in touch with the local art scene and returned to Hungary during the summer to work at Szolnok.
The artwork that is currently held in Miskolc presents a synthesis of the period’s French and Hungarian impressions. Based on its marking, this painting was made in Paris. The light, impressionist presentation and the parasol-holding metropolitan figure are clear Parisian influences, whereas the rural environment bears Hungarian characteristics. It is possible that the painting was created based on sketches made in Szolnok, making it similar to the unique style of rural still life paintings, which is a theme that only had connections to Hungary. This genre of painting was well-received by both Hungarian and foreign audiences in later years.
The painting was added to the collection of the Herman Ottó Museum in 1968. It was received in heavily damaged condition from its previous private ownership in Sátoraljaújhely. The artwork was identified by art historian Lajos Végvári in 1974, who had it restored and made it available to the public through publication (in Hungarian): A Miskolci Herman Ottó Múzeum Közleményei 13. Miskolc, 1974. 73–77.
Andrea Pirint