Artwork
Frederick V, King of Bohemia, Standing in a Niche
Frederick V, King of Bohemia, Standing in a Niche is an ink print by the Romanticist artist Unknown 19th Century. It dates from 1850 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art. The print depicts Frederick V, styled as king, positioned within a recessed, darkened niche.
About this work
Overview
The print depicts Frederick V, styled as king, positioned within a recessed, darkened niche. He is shown in a fur‑trimmed cloak, crowned, and wearing a patterned doublet, while grasping a sword. Above the figure, two winged angels support a shield bearing a coat of arms and a crown, and the inscription "FREDERICUS" appears in bold lettering.
Subject & Meaning
The composition presents Frederick V as a sovereign figure, emphasizing his royal authority through regalia such as the crown, sword, and heraldic shield. The inclusion of angelic supporters suggests a divine endorsement of his rule, a common visual trope for legitimizing monarchical power in early modern portraiture.
Technique & Style
Executed in engraving, the image relies on dense cross‑hatching to model the textures of fur, fabric, and metal, creating a convincing sense of volume and depth. The use of stark contrasts between illuminated areas and deep shadows reflects the Romantic print tradition, where line work alone generates dramatic spatial effects.
History & Provenance
The work is identified as an engraving of Frederick V, King of Bohemia, though specific details about its date, publisher, or original collection are not provided in the source material.
Artist & collection
Artist
