Carl Moll

(Vienna 1861–1945)
Blick auf den Donaukanal mit der Augartenbrücke (The Donaucanal with the Augarten-Bridge, Vienna), c. 1900, monogrammed CM, oil on canvas, 26.5 x 35.5 cm, framed
Listed and illustrated:
Cornelia Cabuk, Carl Moll. Monografie und Werkverzeichnis, Belvedere Werkverzeichnisse, vol. 11, GE 151

Provenance:
Private Collection, USA
Sale: Dorotheum Vienna, 10 December 1985, lot 260
Private Collection, Vienna

In 1873, one of the first iron bridges over the Danube, the "Maria Theresien Bridge," was completed. Four granite portal pillars with allegorical bronze figures gave it a majestic appearance, as it connected the inner city with the Augarten via Maria-Theresien-Strasse.

Carl Moll took an elevated position, likely from one of the buildings on the Schottenring, capturing the lively activity in the square from a bird's-eye perspective. Documenting important city squares that emerged during the modernization process (such as the Elisabeth Bridge, the Votive Church, and others) was a particular focus for the painter just before 1900. In this painting, however, he shed the realism of his early style period. With short brushstrokes, a slight blur, and the contrast between shaded and sunny areas, the artist conveys a wonderful impression of the scene. The painting also serves as an important urban document due to the destruction of the bridge during World War II. Furthermore, the combination of horse-drawn carriages and electric trams is a testament to this transitional period towards technical modernity.