Artwork

Portret van een man, vermoedelijk Frederik II (1712-86) de Grote, koning van Pruisen

Portret van een man, vermoedelijk Frederik II (1712-86) de Grote, koning van Pruisen is an unspecified painting by the Rococo painting artist Unknown. It dates from 1770 and is held in the collection of the Rijksmuseum.

About this work

Technique & Style

Created in 1770, this anonymous work is classified as a painting executed in the genre of a miniature.

Created in 1770, this anonymous work is classified as a painting executed in the genre of a miniature. The artist utilized cardboard as both the support and the primary material for the piece. Measuring 4.5 cm in height and 3.8 cm in width, the small scale is consistent with its designation as a miniature portrait. The work originates from Germany and is currently held in the Rijksmuseum collection.

History & Provenance

The portrait, identified as an anonymous miniature on cardboard created in 1770, is held in the collection of the Rijksmuseum. The work measures 4.5 cm in height and 3.8 cm in width. While the specific inventory or accession number is not detailed in the provided records, the museum's location is confirmed as the primary holding institution for this piece. No exhibition history is documented in the available sources.

Legacy

The portrait's legacy is anchored in its presence at the Rijksmuseum, where it remains part of the collection of miniature paintings. Its depiction of Frederick the Great has contributed to ongoing scholarly discussion about representations of Prussian royalty in 18th-century European art, particularly in works rendered on cardboard as a medium.

The work's attribution to or connection with Frederick II remains subject to interpretation, but its inclusion in institutional records at the Rijksmuseum underscores its continued relevance in museum narratives about historical portraiture.

Overview

This small oval portrait, executed on cardboard, depicts a white‑haired gentleman in a blue jacket over a white shirt, accented by a black choker. The figure’s head is turned slightly to the right, his gaze meeting the viewer directly. The background consists of a muted grey mottling, providing a subdued setting for the detailed likeness.

Subject & Meaning

The sitter is identified as Frederick II (1712‑1786), King of Prussia, known for his military and cultural influence. The neutral expression and direct eye contact convey a sense of authority without overt embellishment, reflecting the Enlightenment-era preference for rational, composed portraiture of sovereigns.