Lot 1846 Dα

Baron Emmerich Joseph of Breidbach zu Bürresheim (1707-1774), who was from a Rhenish noble family, became Prince Elector and Archbishop of Mainz in 1763 and was also Prince-Bishop of Worms as of 1768. During his reign, he strove to implement an enlightened reform programme.
This full-length portrait shows Emmerich Joseph before a backdrop of thick columns and blue drapery, typical elements of representative Baroque portraits, with the electoral crown and mitre placed on a table in front of him as a signs of his secular and clerical authority. The period carved giltwood frame with the elector's coat of arms held by two griffins is an unusual feature.