The Old Soldier - Berncastel 1861 - 1862

Alfred Cornelius Howland created this drawing, 'The Old Soldier - Berncastel', using graphite on paper. Howland lived and worked between 1838 and 1909, a period of great social upheaval in Europe and America. Here, the old soldier, presumably Prussian, is portrayed as a figure of dignity, recalling military history and conservative values. The image may have been intended for popular consumption, as these were times of emerging nationalism and nostalgia for a past heroism. It's important to consider the social and political context in which art is made. The image's visual codes, such as the uniform and the walking stick, signal historical associations with the military. The location, Berncastel, is in the Moselle region of Germany, a region with a rich military history. It is important to also consider how Howland’s own social and political views might have influenced his artistic choices. Art historical research, including studies of the artist's life and times, can shed light on its meaning and significance. By examining the social and institutional context in which art is produced, we can gain a deeper appreciation of its power and complexity.