Artwork
Portable Field Altar for Charles X
Portable Field Altar for Charles X is a drawing by the Romanticist artist Alexandre Denis Abel de Pujol. It dates from 1827 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.
About this work
Overview
Created in 1827 by French artist Alexandre-Denis-Abel de Pujol, the *Portable Field Altar for Charles X* is a detailed drawing of an ornate, functional altar designed for royal ceremonial use.
Subject & Meaning
The altar embodies the religious and ceremonial requirements of its time, tailored for the needs of King Charles X, reflecting the intersection of religious ritual and royal protocol.
Technique & Style
The drawing features a vibrant, detailed depiction with multiple colors (red, green, gold, blue), intricate small paintings of classically dressed figures, green garlands, and gold accents, showcasing de Pujol's decorative skill.
History & Provenance
Commissioned for Charles X, the altar's design aligns with de Pujol's known work in large-scale decorative projects, though its current location and whether it was ever constructed are not specified here.
Context
While de Pujol's style was rooted in his training under Jacques-Louis David, the piece's emphasis on detail and ornamentation might suggest a broader Romantic influence, though it primarily serves a practical, ceremonial purpose.
Legacy
The altar's legacy is tied to de Pujol's broader recognition (Légion d'honneur, Institut de France) rather than the piece itself being widely noted in major art historical narratives beyond its contextual interest.
Artist & collection
Artist
Alexandre-Denis-Abel de Pujol or Abel de Pujol (30 January 1785 in Valenciennes – 29 September 1861 in Paris) was a French painter.
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