Keve, legendary Hungarian military leader 1828

Josef Kriehuber created this rendering of Keve, the legendary Hungarian military leader, using lithography, a process known for its fine lines and detailed textures. The artist uses a muted palette, which is punctuated by stronger hues of blue and red. The blue of the staff, which features prominently on the left side of the composition, works as a vertical stabilizer, while the gentle curve of the pink banner softens the military associations. The interplay of line and texture is critical here; the detailed rendering of Keve’s chainmail contrasts with the smoother surfaces of his other garments. This is a very interesting piece because the subject is framed, on the one hand by the bright staff and banner, and on the other by a large shield, creating an enclosed effect. The texture of the ground and background hints at depth, yet the figure of Keve is flattened, almost like a cutout. This tension between depth and flatness keeps our eyes moving.