Empress Maria Theresa Garlanded by Wisdom 1744

Johann Georg Dathan's 1744 portrait, "Empress Maria Theresa Garlanded by Wisdom," depicts the Habsburg empress in a grand, symbolic setting. She is seated, with a woman representing Wisdom placing a crown upon her head, while an ornate, draped backdrop and regal accoutrements emphasize her power and authority. The artist's meticulous detail and use of allegory make this a masterful example of Baroque portraiture, capturing the eminence of Maria Theresa and the ideals of her reign. This artwork is currently located in the SMK - Statens Museum for Kunst and is a testament to the artistry of Dathan, who unfortunately passed away in 1749.