Lot 254 Dα

Alongside Emil Hünten, Wilhelm Camphausen was one of the most well known battle painters of his era. This genre experienced a rise in popularity during this time, not least due to the Austro-German and Franco-German wars. The artist accompanied armies as an observer and chronicler, recording the deeds of their leaders and glorifying their victories. This way, the greatest historical figures of the budding German nation, especially Frederick the Great, received increased publicity. Scenes from his life and work later inspired the great artist Adolph Menzel to paint his historic compositions. In the work of Wilhelm Camphausen, military motifs mainly occur between 1859 and 1864, and the present work represents a characteristic example of this type.