Adolph von Menzel

Adolph von Menzel was a German painter, draughtsman and illustrator, and is regarded as a leading representative of Realism in the 19th century. His artistic education began early: at 16 he had to continue his father’s printing workshop. In 1833 he attended Berlin’s Academy of Arts for half a year, but left this experience disappointed and thereafter educated himself independently. In 1839 he received the commission to illustrate a multi volume history of Frederick the Great. His works initially tackled historical themes, later turning more to the present and depicting contemporary life. At the Paris Exposition Universelle of 1867 he gained international visibility. Contemporary themes occupied a broad space: he painted mainly figures of the bourgeoisie and upper bourgeoisie. Craftsmen and workers were portrayed entirely without irony, with respect for their serious, well made work. Menzel’s pursuit of the greatest possible verisimilitude led to exceptional attention to detail: each element seems autonomous, which can create, on the one hand, a chaotic impression, and on the other, an isolated atmosphere. Additionally, Menzel preferred compositions that looked casual and resembled spontaneous snapshots by a photographer, though they were carefully arranged. His drawing work accompanied his entire life and formed the basis for both his realistic historical scenes and contemporary portraits.