Saint Henry (Emperor Henry II)

Joseph von Führich

1800–1876 · Pen and black ink, brush and gray and yellow wash, over graphite; framing line in pen and ink over graphite. · Drawings and Prints

In minute pen lines and delicate touches of wash, Henry II, ruler of the Holy Roman Empire from 1002 to 1024, is shown holding a model of Bamberg Cathedral, which he founded. His nimbus, inscribed in Latin "Saint Henry the Emperor,"refers to his canonization; his crown, ermine robe, and armour refer to his power as a secular ruler. The drawing is an outstanding example of the later style of von Fühich, who, in his youth, had been a member of the Nazarene Brotherhood and later spread their influence in Austria as professor at the Vienna Academy. The drawing’s purpose is unknown; it may have been a design for a book illustration or a church decoration.

Artist

Joseph von Führich

Date

1800–1876

Medium

Pen and black ink, brush and gray and yellow wash, over graphite; framing line in pen and ink over graphite.

Department

Drawings and Prints

Credit line

The Elisha Whittelsey Collection, The Elisha Whittelsey Fund, 2006