Inside the Enchanting Abode of "Lord of the Chickens" Peter Gaymann
"In Bavaria, cartoonist Peter Gaymann immerses himself in his unique world"
Nestled in the rolling hills of Bavaria, Peter Gaymann finds inspiration from his breathtaking surroundings. This Freiburg native (74 years young) has made Schaeftlarn his home, and his feathered friends have become a trademark of his work. With over 20,000 drawings adorning posters, postcards, books, and calendars, his witty depictions of chickens have graced millions of households.
Ten years ago, Gaymann and his wife Viktoria Steinbiß-Gaymann stumbled upon their idyllic retreat: the former Marienhof in the Neufahrn district of Schaeftlarn. Their vision? To preserve the essence of this one-of-a-kind inn. While the property may no longer be a bustling inn, it still provides a warm and welcoming space for a few lucky chickens.
Cartoonist Gaymann: "History Matters"
Stepping into this historical haven, you can still feel the echoes of the former inn that thrived here from 1779 to 1920. Arched doorways, thick walls, and an original roof truss hark back to a time when pilgrims passed the inn on their way between the monasteries of Schaeftlarn and Andechs. Today, the inn stands along the Camino de Santiago, paying homage to its rich history.
Gaymann and Steinbiß-Gaymann lived in Cologne when they first came across the Marienhof on Immoscout in 2015. With its convenient location near the highway, tranquil surroundings, spacious 400 square meters, and ten inviting rooms, it was the perfect fit for the couple's future home. Their shared laughter and camaraderie fill the air, reminding guests that they share more than just a home – they share a love for each other.
Preserving the Past, Embracing the Present
Together, the couple has transformed the ground floor of the inn into a cozy living space, complete with a living room, guest room, fully-equipped kitchen, and dining area. They've skillfully balanced preserving the inn's original character with creating a warm, modern atmosphere. Walls adorned with colorful marble plaster speak to the inn's history, while the original tile stove still stands proudly in the living room.
The couple has woven their personal touches throughout the property, such as the playful touch of a chicken figure on a Rembrandt painting. Every item in their home tells a story, whether it be acquired during their travels, found at a flea market, or purchased new. Their home sparks joy, with each item perfectly placed and adding to the overall ambiance.
A Museum of Memories
Gaymann and Steinbiß-Gaymann's home is, in a sense, a museum of their life together. Pieces with sentimental value, like a Freiburg Münster angel figurine that Gaymann has incorporated into his artwork, are thoughtfully placed throughout the house. Their vibrant and unique decor, a mix of contemporary and traditional styles, creates an atmosphere that is distinctly their own.
The couple's individuality shines through in their home, as well. Steinbiß-Gaymann's love for colorful clothing stands in stark contrast to Gaymann's more subdued style, but they find harmony in their shared appreciation for good taste and aesthetic balance.
Gaymann's studio, perched in the attic, is a sanctuary for his creativity. The space allows him to immerse himself in his work and, just as importantly, allows each member of the household to have their own space to explore their passions. For Gaymann, the studio is a portal to another world, where he can lose himself in his work.
From the moment you set foot in Peter Gaymann's extraordinary home, it's clear that he and Viktoria Steinbiß-Gaymann have created a space filled with love, laughter, and cherished memories. It's like taking a step back in time, yet remaining informed by the present.
Mark your calendars! Many works by Peter Gaymann will be displayed in the exhibition "Laughing in Crazy Times" on the occasion of his 75th birthday on June 26, 2025, at the New Art Museum Tübingen.
- The couple's home, a museum of their life together, is a captivating blend of their personal styles, showcasing Viktoria Steinbiß-Gaymann's love for colorful fashion-and-beauty and Peter Gaymann's preference for a more subdued lifestyle.
- Inside their idyllic retreat, the former Marienhof, home decor ranges from historical artifacts to modern acquisitions, reflecting the couple's shared appreciation for home-and-garden charm and each other's unique tastes.
