Artwork

Portrait of Franz Josef I, Emperor of Austria

Portrait of Franz Josef I, Emperor of Austria, by Heinrich von Angeli, oil, 1874
Portrait of Franz Josef I, Emperor of Austria, by Heinrich von Angeli, oil, 1874

Portrait of Franz Josef I, Emperor of Austria is an oil painting by the Realist artist Heinrich von Angeli. It dates from 1874 and is held in the collection of the Hermitage Museum.

About this work

Overview

Heinrich von Angeli's 1874 oil painting, Portrait of Franz Josef I, Emperor of Austria, is a formal representation of the emperor. The work is part of the collection at the State Hermitage Museum.

Subject & Meaning

The portrait focuses on Franz Josef I, emphasizing his military and imperial authority through the depiction of elaborate uniform, numerous medals, and a commanding posture.

Technique & Style

The artist employs chiaroscuro, with strong lighting highlighting the emperor's face against a darker, shaded background. The composition includes symbolic elements such as a red sash, gold buttons, and a ceremonial hat on a stand.

History & Provenance

Created in 1874, the painting is now housed at the State Hermitage Museum, St. Petersburg, Russia, as part of its historical portrait collection.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Heinrich von Angeli

Artist

Heinrich von Angeli

Heinrich von Angeli (1840–1925) was an artist, born in Sopron.

Hermitage Museum

Museum

Hermitage Museum

Continue through works from the same source collection.

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: Hermitage Museum open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.