Artwork

Turkish sultans, sultanas and other historical figures

Turkish sultans, sultanas and other historical figures, by Franz Xavier Jungwierth, 1766
Turkish sultans, sultanas and other historical figures, by Franz Xavier Jungwierth, 1766

Turkish sultans, sultanas and other historical figures is a print by the Romanticist artist Franz Xavier Jungwierth. It dates from 1766 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.

About this work

The name "Amurathus P III" is printed at the bottom, which might be a version of a historical figure’s name.

This is a black-and-white portrait of a man in a high turban and ornate collar. His face is serious, with a short beard and mustache. The collar has detailed swirls and jewels, and the turban is wrapped tightly with a brooch pinning it.

The name "Amurathus P III" is printed at the bottom, which might be a version of a historical figure’s name. This print is from 1766, and the artist used fine lines to create shadows and texture.

Look up chiaroscuro to see how artists like this one used light and dark to shape faces.

Overview

This 1766 print by Franz Xavier Jungwierth features a group of historical figures, including a central male portrait.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts Murad III, a Turkish sultan, accompanied by other sultans, sultanas, and historical figures. The central figure wears a high turban and ornate collar, conveying a sense of dignity and authority.

Technique & Style

The artist employed fine lines to create detailed textures and shading, using chiaroscuro to define the subjects' features. The resulting black-and-white image is characterized by strong contrasts between light and dark.

History & Provenance

The print is dated 1766 and attributed to Franz Xavier Jungwierth. The inscription 'Amurathus P III' at the bottom likely refers to the historical figure Murad III.

Artist & collection

Artist

Franz Xavier Jungwierth

Franz Xavier Jungwirth made colorful prints about people and history. In 1766 he printed Turkish sultans, sultanas and other historical figures wearing fine clothes and sitting in grand rooms. His work looks like the…