Commander with Escort, Majestic Cavalry Procession from Bern's 1853 Festival, 1855, Print

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Title: Commander Leading the Escort – A Majestic Cavalry Procession from Bern’s 1853 Festival : This magnificent hand-colored lithograph is … Read more Title: Commander Leading the Escort – A Majestic Cavalry Procession from Bern’s 1853 Festival : This magnificent hand-colored lithograph is part of the 'Fest Album Celebrating Bern’s Entry into the Swiss Confederation on March 6, 1353, Commemorated in 1853 on the Victory Days of Laupen and Murten', published in Bern and Zurich in 1855. Created by the skilled artist Heinrich Jenny and lithographed by Kümmerly and Wittmer, this artwork captures a grand military spectacle, showcasing a 'commander leading an escort of 30 men' in full historical regalia. The scene is a stunning display of pageantry and martial discipline, with two commanders on horseback leading a distinguished formation of mounted soldiers. Their armor gleams under their red-and-black striped capes, while their helmets are adorned with grand plumes, signifying their rank and status. The horses, meticulously outfitted with matching fabric, move in unison, their rhythmic march reinforcing the disciplined order of the escort. Behind them, the thirty horsemen follow in tight formation, each holding a long lance, their stoic expressions evoking the solemnity and grandeur of a medieval military parade. This print is one of the most visually striking in the 'Fest Album', capturing the essence of Bern’s historical pride. The 1853 festival was an elaborate reenactment celebrating the city’s 500-year membership in the Swiss Confederation, and this lithograph illustrates one of its most stately moments. The precision in Jenny’s artwork conveys the sense of movement and authority within the procession, making it a remarkable document of 19th-century historical pageantry. The striking contrast of the red-and-black garments against the pale background adds a dramatic effect, emphasizing the splendor of the event. The details in the horses’ bridles, the intricate embroidery of the uniforms, and the realistic rendering of the military formation all showcase the remarkable artistry of the period. Each element contributes to an overall sense of grandeur, transporting the viewer back to a time of chivalry and honor. Summary of Condition: The print is in good condition with some expected signs of age. There is minor foxing around the edges and slight wear along the margins, but the central imagery remains vivid and well-preserved. The colors are strong, maintaining the visual impact of the scene, and the fine details of the lithograph remain crisp and clear. Framing Tips: To highlight the elegance of this historical print, it is recommended to use a **classic gold or black wooden frame** with subtle detailing to complement the regal theme. **Acid-free matting** in a neutral or slightly warm tone will enhance the rich colors without overwhelming the artwork. For added protection, **UV-resistant glass** is advisable to preserve the vibrancy of the pigments. A **floating mount within a shadow box frame** would also be an excellent option to emphasize the antique nature of the print, giving it a gallery-quality presentation. See less