For centuries, the constant Ottoman incursions have left a deep trauma, especially in Austria. Only the victories of Prince Eugen bring a sense of relief from constant danger. Fear is replaced by a mood of triumph. The Habsburg Crown Lands, Austria, Hungary and Bohemia, experience an unprecedented flowering of art, initially, completely under the spell of Italian archetypes. Soon, however, young, local artists make their way to the top and emancipate themselves from their Italian teachers.

Abbeys, parish and pilgrimage churches emerge everywhere. An entire country gains a new identity which fashioned a concept of the Baroque still valid to this day. The new art evolves for the glory of the Catholic faith. Architecture, sculpture and painting are combined into a synthesis of the arts – with overwhelming effect.

Oil sketches are important precursors for the many altarpieces and frescoes. They acquire an independent quality and are avidly collected. They reflect the first, spontaneous visual idea – the prima idea.