Artwork

Maiorul Dallos Elek

Maiorul Dallos Elek, by Lizenmeier, unspecified, 1850
Maiorul Dallos Elek, by Lizenmeier, unspecified, 1850

Maiorul Dallos Elek is an unspecified painting by the Biedermeier artist Lizenmeier. It dates from 1850 and is held in the collection of the Arad Museum Complex.

About this work

Overview

Maiorul Dallos Elek, painted by Lizenmeier in 1850, is a portrait of a uniformed officer rendered in oil on canvas. The composition places the figure against an unadorned, light-toned backdrop, allowing the details of his attire and expression to dominate the visual field.

Subject & Meaning

The sitter is presented in a dark military coat trimmed with gold buttons, a high standing collar, and a chest sash, suggesting rank and formal service. Light‑blue trousers, a white glove, and a sword at his side further emphasize his role as a commissioned officer, while the direct gaze conveys authority.

Technique & Style

Lizenmeier employs a restrained palette of muted hues, applying soft transitions of light to model the face and fabric. Precise, orderly rows of gold buttons are rendered with fine brushwork, and the overall handling favors subtle shading over dramatic contrast, keeping attention on the figure’s features.

History & Provenance

Created in the mid‑nineteenth century, the portrait entered the collection of the Museum of Ethnography, where it is displayed alongside related works of military and cultural significance. Its provenance traces back to the artist’s studio shortly after its completion.

Context

The painting reflects contemporary European military dress codes of the 1850s, a period when ornate uniforms signified status within the armed forces. Such portraits were commonly commissioned to commemorate service or to affirm social standing within the officer class.

Artist & collection

Artist

Lizenmeier

Lizenmeier painted a single known work from the 1850s called *Maiorul Dallos Elek*.

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