The invention relates to a front lifting device (10) of a work machine (28), which includes a support frame (12), by which the front lifting device is to be attached to the chassis (32) of the work machine, a rotating frame (24) fitted to the support frame rotatably in the horizontal direction, a first and a second lifting arm (16.1, 16.2) at a distance from each other laterally pivoted to the rotating frame by means of horizontal pivots (37) in order to permit the vertical movement of the lifting arms, first operating devices (48) for rotating the rotating frame, second operating devices (48) connected to the lifting arms in order to lift the lifting arms, and control means (11) for controlling the operating power to the first and second operating devices. The first and second operating device (48) for operating the lifting arms and rotating the rotating frame are together a first and second hydraulic cylinder (18.1, 18.2), of which the first hydraulic cylinder is connected between the support frame and the first lifting arm, and the second hydraulic cylinder is connected between the support frame and the second lifting arm. The control means include a set of valves (52), which is arranged to direct the operating power optionally either in parallel to the first and second hydraulic cylinders or crosswise to at least one hydraulic cylinder. In addition, the invention also relates to a work machine (28) equipped with a front lifting device (10).