Half Ground Plan and Half Elevation for a Catafalque for a Prince of Hanover, probably Ernst August (1674-1728) 1696 - 1756

Giuseppe Galli Bibiena created this drawing, "Half Ground Plan and Half Elevation for a Catafalque for a Prince of Hanover, probably Ernst August," sometime between 1696 and 1756 using pen, black ink, and gray wash on paper. During the Baroque period, marked by its elaborate and theatrical style, the rituals surrounding death were grand public displays of power. This drawing offers a glimpse into that world, detailing the design for a catafalque, a temporary structure used to honor a deceased member of royalty, in this case, likely Prince Ernst August. The drawing presents both a ground plan and an elevation, allowing us to see not only the layout but also the ornate details of the proposed structure. Bibiena, who came from a family of architects and designers, was known for his theatrical designs. The ephemeral nature of these structures is striking; all this work for something temporary, a monument to power and class. How does it feel to see a monument for someone who is not around anymore?