Who painted Richard Menzel Posing in Eighteenth-Century Costume?

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

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

Inscription: Inscribed:by later hand, lower center verso in graphite: Kat. 1351

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.