Portrait of the Emperor Joseph II as Military Commander 1732 - 1761

Johann Wolfgang Baumgartner made this drawing of Emperor Joseph II in Austria. It is a preparatory study, worked in black chalk heightened with white chalk on faded blue paper. The portrait presents the Emperor in the guise of a military leader. Made in the 18th century during the height of the Austrian Empire, we see the sitter adorned with elaborate military garb, including a breastplate and sash. Cultural references to military prowess and imperial power are reinforced through visual codes such as the spear and helmet in the lower right. The drawing reflects the social structures of its time, reinforcing Joseph II's authority as the leader. A progressive monarch, Joseph II implemented reforms related to civil rights, freedom of the press, and the abolishment of serfdom. To better understand this drawing, historians might research visual codes of leadership, looking at other contemporary depictions of political figures. In this way, we can better understand the social and institutional contexts in which the art was made.