Alpine cows have the most lovingly decorated bells, a point of artistic pride among farmers.
Can you guess? This is a raincoat made of reeds. I’m not entirely sure how this would keep someone dry, though.
Window flower boxes. Not popular until the 19th century, they were “gifts of love” from boys to girls. Sweet.
An elegant lock. Houses may have been plain and utilitarian, but the locksmiths’ work was pure artistry. That must explain why getting a key copied in Vienna costs €30 or more–it is not just a key, it’s “art.”
An ordinary household cabbage shredder. That should give you some idea of the amount of cabbage and sauerkraut eaten across the empire. Even today.
Give up? Why, it’s a mousetrap!
This piece was interesting. The Rowan berry press, the juices of which were turned into a brandy to address “female complaints,” and administered only by the farmer’s wife. Ha. Today we call that experience “Book Club.” (And for Harry Potter fans, the bark of the Rowan bush can be turned into wands.)
Enlisting to serve the empire during WWI was of major significance, especially for rural families. Boxes displaying the Enlistment hat decorations, along with photos of the enlistees were created with pride.
The Enlistee Hat
Painted marriage bed depicting wedding scenes.
The palais has a pretty garden, a large part of which was given over to create Park Schönborn. Too cold and wet to enjoy on my visit, though.
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