Wenzel III 1828

Editor: Here we have Josef Kriehuber's "Wenzel III" from 1828. It's a print, depicting the historical figure. I am really struck by the sheer opulence of the attire – it almost feels like the artist wanted to convey power through fabric. What's your take? Curator: Oh, "power through fabric," I like that. It makes me wonder: is it history painting, or theatre? I think Kriehuber is making a point about the performance of power. Notice how the subject's face almost disappears amidst the robes and crown? The Romantic era was all about exploring the grand sweep of history, often with a healthy dose of drama. Editor: So you're suggesting that it might be less about historical accuracy and more about creating a specific kind of mood, one of drama and grandiosity? Curator: Exactly! Consider those vibrant colours and minute details. The romantic painters were skilled, with their unique colour mixing, and line-work. This work may explore our own ideas of authority or perhaps challenge them a bit. Do you see any of the colours reflected elsewhere? Editor: Well, now that you mention it, the golden hues in the cloak are also found in the crown and sceptre. Curator: A deliberate choice! And those colours aren't there by accident, are they? Kriehuber uses colour as a shorthand to make us contemplate. It really comes down to considering, who needs reminding of royal authority? Editor: I see it now! The choice of medium as a print maybe made it easier to reach a wider audience with that message. That's not something I considered originally. Curator: That is something that brings me to what’s amazing with colours – and I find that in almost all prints, or lithographs. Well, until next time. Editor: Absolutely, till our next analysis. Thank you.