Who painted Richard Menzel Posing in Eighteenth-Century Costume?

Richard Menzel Posing in Eighteenth-Century Costume was painted by Adolph von Menzel in 1854.

Where can I see Richard Menzel Posing in Eighteenth-Century Costume?

Richard Menzel Posing in Eighteenth-Century Costume is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is Richard Menzel Posing in Eighteenth-Century Costume?

Richard Menzel Posing in Eighteenth-Century Costume is associated with Impressionism.

Artwork

Richard Menzel Posing in Eighteenth-Century Costume

Adolph von Menzel , 1854

Richard Menzel Posing in Eighteenth-Century Costume is a graphite drawing by the Impressionist artist Adolph von Menzel. It dates from 1854 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Richard Menzel Posing in Eighteenth-Century Costume is a 1854 drawing by Adolph Menzel, a prominent German artist known for his realistic depictions. The work is executed in graphite with stumping and yellow highlights on brown laid paper.

Subject & Meaning

The drawing depicts the artist's brother, Richard Menzel, dressed in 18th-century attire, standing in a relaxed pose with one hand on his hip. The subject's old-fashioned clothing is rendered in detail, suggesting an interest in historical dress and costume.

Technique & Style

Menzel employed quick, sketchy strokes to capture the pose and clothing of his subject. The use of graphite with stumping and yellow highlights on brown paper creates a warm, nuanced image with a focus on texture and shading.

Context

This drawing reflects Menzel's practice of creating detailed studies of figures and costumes, a common exercise for artists of the time. The work is characteristic of 19th-century Realist drawing techniques.