Frederick the Great
1763
Painted in 1763 by Johann Georg Ziesenis, this portrait shows Frederick the Great looking surprisingly relaxed for a legendary military commander. Dressed in his iconic blue Prussian uniform and wearing the star of the Order of the Black Eagle, the king leans casually on a map rather than sitting stiffly on a throne. This was a bold choice! It highlights his reputation as an 'enlightened' ruler who loved philosophy and music, though the baton in his hand and the map beneath his fingers remind us he was still very much the boss of the army.
- Technique
- Oil painting
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