Wappen auf dem Marburger Schloss 1874

Peter Becker sketched "Wappen auf dem Marburger Schloss," or Coat of Arms at Marburg Castle, using graphite. Becker, born in Germany in 1828, lived during a time of significant social and political change, including the rise of nationalism. This sketch captures a coat of arms, a symbol of familial or aristocratic identity. Coats of arms were often associated with the patriarchy as emblems of power, lineage, and property passed down through generations. The inclusion of human figures beside the shield references the gendered roles that define social status. Becker's choice to sketch this heraldic symbol reflects a desire to document and perhaps celebrate traditional German heritage. As you stand here, consider how these symbols, laden with history, resonate, and whether they continue to perpetuate traditional narratives of identity.