Demetrius, sein Schwert ziehend und mit weit ausfallendem Schritt, nach links c. 1867 - 1868

Paul Konewka made this pencil sketch, titled *Demetrius, sein Schwert ziehend und mit weit ausfallendem Schritt, nach links,* sometime in the mid-19th century. The subject appears to be an ancient warrior drawing his sword, his form captured with quick, confident lines. The composition evokes a sense of classical heroism. But it’s important to remember that the 19th century was a time of intense nationalism in Europe, and ancient history was often mined for examples of national virtue. Konewka was German, and one wonders if he was not only depicting Demetrius, but also calling on the virtues of the ancient world to comment on the social structures of his own time, perhaps offering a vision of German strength and resolve. To fully understand this sketch, one could delve into the history of German nationalism in the 19th century, exploring popular historical narratives and the ways in which artists participated in shaping national identity. Works from the Städel Museum archives may shed light on this drawing’s cultural context.