The night 1820

Eugen Eduard Schäffer made this drawing called ‘The Night’ with graphite on paper in 19th century Germany. The image depicts a series of allegorical figures in dynamic poses against a backdrop of swirling forms, evoking the mysteries of the night. The cultural and institutional history of 19th century Germany shaped Schäffer’s artistic production. As Germany underwent rapid industrialization and urbanization, artists grappled with questions of national identity, cultural heritage, and the role of art in modern society. Institutions such as the Städel Museum, where this drawing is housed, played a crucial role in shaping artistic tastes and promoting certain aesthetic ideals. Schäffer’s drawing reflects a fascination with classical mythology and symbolism. His work can be read as a commentary on the tensions between tradition and modernity in 19th century Germany. By consulting archival sources and historical texts, we can gain a deeper understanding of the social and institutional contexts in which Schäffer’s drawing was produced, and how it reflects the complex dynamics of its time.