Artwork

A photograph of 'der schwur am rutli' statue

A photograph of 'der schwur am rutli' statue, by A. Gabler, photographic
A photograph of 'der schwur am rutli' statue, by A. Gabler, photographic

A photograph of 'der schwur am rutli' statue is a photographic photography by the Impressionist artist A. Gabler. It is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum. This carte-de-visite photograph, produced in 1864, captures A.

About this work

Overview

This carte-de-visite photograph, produced in 1864, captures A. Gabler's sculpture *Der Schwur am Rütli*. The small-format image is characteristic of its intended use for portrait exchange.

Subject & Meaning

The photograph depicts three figures from Swiss history, dressed in antiquated attire, united in a solemn oath. The central figure clasps the hands of the other two, who raise their right arms in unison, evoking the historic pledge at Rütli, a pivotal moment in Swiss national unity.

Technique & Style

The black-and-white photograph features a plain background, emphasizing the sculptural group. The composition is straightforward, with attention focused on the intertwined figures, highlighting the emotional gravity of the oath.

History & Provenance

Created in 1864, the photograph documents A. Gabler's sculpture of the same year. The image's title, *Der Schwur am Rütli*, is inscribed at the bottom, referencing the legendary 13th-century oath that unified Swiss cantons against Habsburg rule.

Context

As a carte-de-visite, this photograph was part of a 19th-century social exchange phenomenon, allowing widespread dissemination of artistic and historical subjects among the populace.

Artist & collection

Artist

A. Gabler

A. Gabler (1762–1834) was an artist, born in Nuremberg.