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Cloud Study - 19th Century Oil on Paper

19th Century

$1,857.86
£1,389.80
€1,550
CA$2,557.87
A$2,799.29
CHF 1,479.18
MX$33,411.32
NOK 18,876.14
SEK 17,263.76
DKK 11,809.25

About the Item

Cloud study by a rocky coastline overlooking the sea. To the right of the composition stands a large maritime marker, while in the lower left a few ship masts emerge in the distance. The cloud formation is particularly unusual, as on closer inspection one discovers that the shapes of the clouds reveal mythological figures and putti, possibly alluding to Minerva, Jupiter, and other deities. One figure, located in the lower right section of the clouds, appears to be holding a crossbow. Oil on paper mounted on a wooden panel. On the reverse is an inscription reading “Menzel - D.…,” which may refer to the German painter Adolph von Menzel (1815–1905). Most of Menzel’s works and studies were executed in small formats such as this. The back also bears a stamp, unfortunately difficult to decipher, which may be an old collector’s mark. Adolph von Menzel was one of the most significant German artists of the 19th century. Born in Breslau (today Wrocław, Poland), Menzel became closely associated with the Prussian court, producing numerous paintings, drawings, and illustrations that documented the reign of Frederick the Great. Menzel created countless smaller oil studies and sketches/drawings on paper, which reveal his fascination with light, atmosphere, and fleeting visual impressions. In the clouds of this study, the viewer may discern Minerva, the Roman goddess of wisdom, strategy, and the arts, who is often depicted with a helmet, shield, and spear. She was venerated as a protector of cities and an embodiment of rational thought. Alongside her, Jupiter, the king of the gods and ruler of the heavens, was associated with thunder, storms, and authority. He was frequently portrayed with the thunderbolt as his emblem of power. Their presence among the clouds in this work resonates with classical allegory, where divine figures often appeared in the skies as guiding or judging forces.
  • Creation Year:
    19th Century
  • Dimensions:
    Height: 11.03 in (28 cm)Width: 4.73 in (12 cm)Depth: 1.19 in (3 cm)
  • Medium:
  • Period:
  • Condition:
    In good condition.
  • Gallery Location:
    Stockholm, SE
  • Reference Number:
    1stDibs: LU2608216956822

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