Wilhelm Busch. (1832 Wiedensahl - 1908 Mechtshausen) "Homewards". Original title Depiction of two cows at the edge of a forest being driven home by a figure in a red jacket, painted in a tonal colouring and a fast, broad style. Created around 1885-1890, this is a characteristic cabinet painting by Busch, in whose painterly oeuvre cows and peasants, which can be captured directly, are an important theme. In addition, the present painting also features his central, very individual personal motif of the so-called "red jacket" - among the more than 1000 paintings and sketches, there are around 280 in which figures are dressed in a red jacket that is highly unusual for everyday peasant life. The work also reflects the direct influence of Dutch-Flemish painters of the 17th century on the artist, who was primarily known as a humorous draughtsman and poet. Busch first studied at the Academy of Art in Düsseldorf from 1851 to 1853 and then at the Academy in Antwerp, where he was able to admire the Old Masters in the original. His time in Antwerp and his knowledge of Dutch-Flemish painting of the 17th century, which had a profound influence on him, formed the basis for Busch's work as a painter. Oil/cardboard. Label with confirmation of authenticity on verso "I hereby confirm that the picture 'Heimwärts' overleaf was painted by Wilhelm Busch and has been in my possession since his death. Verden, 25.12.(19)22 Mrs Professor L Nöldeke". 14.2 cm x 25 cm. Frame. Wvz. Gmelin/Brunngraber-Malottke 1044. Provenance: Elisabeth Nöldeke née Koch (1871 - 1952), wife of Busch's nephew Adolf Nöldeke (1865 - 1919), Verden 1922; Galerie J. H. Bauer Hanover; private collection Münster. Oil on cardboard. On the reverse label with certificate of authenticity by the wife of the artist's nephew Elisabeth Nöldeke, titled and dated 1922. Mentioned in the catalogue raisonné, no. 1044.