Written in the early 20th century, Rosshalde centers on the painter Johann Veraguth and delves into his family life and artistic struggles. Veraguth purchases an old estate called Rosshalde, where he explores the complex relationships within his family while pursuing his art. The novel addresses themes of art, family dynamics, and the tension between personal fulfillment and duty. At the beginning of the story, the reader is introduced to Veraguth and his family living at Rosshalde, where the artist's secluded studio and his wife's traditional home are depicted as separate spaces. Veraguth feels particularly complicated emotions toward his estranged older son Albert and his younger son Pierre. As he immerses himself in painting, he reflects on the past and wrestles with the emotional distance between his artistic ambitions and his familial obligations. This opening sets the stage for a deep exploration of how art and personal challenges shape the life of an artist.