Artwork

The Discovery of the Corpse of King Louis II

The Discovery of the Corpse of King Louis II, by Bertalan Székely, oil, 1860
The Discovery of the Corpse of King Louis II, by Bertalan Székely, oil, 1860

The Discovery of the Corpse of King Louis II is an oil painting by Bertalan Székely. It dates from 1860 and is held in the collection of the Hungarian National Gallery.

About this work

Overview

The Discovery of the Corpse of King Louis II is an oil painting completed by Bertalan Székely in 1860. It is held in the Hungarian National Gallery.

Subject & Meaning

The painting depicts the moment when the body of King Louis II was discovered after his death in battle. The scene is one of shock and grief, with a group of men gathered around the corpse, dressed in traditional clothing, in a rural landscape.

Technique & Style

Székely's use of chiaroscuro creates a sense of depth and contrast, drawing attention to the central figure of the corpse. The somber tone and attention to detail convey a sense of reverence and respect for the deceased.

History & Provenance

Bertalan Székely, a Hungarian history painter, was born in Transylvania and later based in Budapest. He worked in the Romantic and Academic styles, and was known for his historical and portrait works.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Bertalan Székely

Artist

Bertalan Székely

Bertalan Székely (8 May 1835, Kolozsvár, Transylvania, Kingdom of Hungary (now Cluj-Napoca, Romania) – 21 August 1910, Budapest, Transleithania, Austria-Hungary) was a Hungarian history and portrait painter who worked in the Romantic and…