Artwork

Portrait of Fersen (?)

Portrait of Fersen (?), by Franz Krüger, oil, 1850
Portrait of Fersen (?), by Franz Krüger, oil, 1850

Portrait of Fersen (?) is an oil painting by the Realist artist Franz Krüger. It dates from 1850 and is held in the collection of the Hermitage Museum. Portrait of Fersen (?

About this work

Overview

Portrait of Fersen (?) is an oil painting created by Franz Krüger around 1850. The work is a portrait of a young man, likely of high rank, depicted in a formal military setting.

Subject & Meaning

The subject, possibly Axel von Fersen, is portrayed in a dark blue military coat with gold buttons and a fur-trimmed collar, indicating his elevated status. His pose, holding a white glove and resting an arm on the chair, conveys a sense of calm authority.

Technique & Style

Krüger employed smooth brushstrokes to achieve a polished appearance on the subject's face and uniform, characteristic of the Realist movement. The background features a softly blurred landscape, contrasting with the subject's sharp detail.

History & Provenance

Created in Berlin, where Krüger was renowned for his military and portrait paintings, the work is now part of the State Hermitage Museum's collection.

Context

As a prominent Prussian painter and lithographer, Krüger's work reflects the era's focus on capturing the likeness and stature of the wealthy and powerful. This portrait exemplifies his ability to convey the dignity of his subjects.

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Artist & collection

Portrait of Franz Krüger

Artist

Franz Krüger

Franz Krüger (10 September 1797, in Großbadegast, Köthen, Anhalt – 21 January 1857, in Berlin), known as Pferde-Krüger ("Horse-Krüger"), was a German (Prussian) painter and lithographer.

Hermitage Museum

Museum

Hermitage Museum

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

Frequently asked questions

Who painted Portrait of Fersen (?)?

Portrait of Fersen (?) was painted by Franz Krüger in 1850.

Where can I see Portrait of Fersen (?)?

Portrait of Fersen (?) is held by Hermitage Museum.

What movement is Portrait of Fersen (?)?

Portrait of Fersen (?) is associated with Realism.