Grand Procession Wilhelm Herter Von Strasburg and the Lords of Bohemia, 1855, Paper

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Title: 1855 Grand Procession – Wilhelm Herter von Strasburg and the Lords of Bohemia : This splendid hand-colored lithograph, created … Read more Title: 1855 Grand Procession – Wilhelm Herter von Strasburg and the Lords of Bohemia : This splendid hand-colored lithograph, created by H. Jenny and lithographed by Kümmerly and Wittmer, is part of the 'Fest Album' commemorating Bern’s entry into the Swiss Confederation on March 6, 1353. Published in Bern and Zurich in 1855, this large oblong folio captures the historical reenactments of 1853, which celebrated Swiss military heritage and alliances through grand ceremonial processions. The scene presents a distinguished cavalcade of medieval European nobility, led by 'Wilhelm Herter von Strasburg', a historical figure associated with the Holy Roman Empire and its military campaigns. Clad in full plate armor with a flowing beard, Herter rides a chestnut horse adorned in red and gold heraldic trappings. His noble posture, along with his decorated armor, signifies his high status and leadership in the parade. To his left, a 'Freiherr von Böhmen' (Baron of Bohemia) rides a striking black horse, wearing a finely crafted suit of armor with red and gold embellishments. The intricate barding on the horse, featuring gold filigree, adds a sense of splendor and authority to the composition. The baron’s poised stance and confident grip on the reins suggest a figure of military prowess and noble lineage. Behind them, two standard-bearers ride gracefully, holding banners representing their respective factions. The banners, one gold with intricate red motifs and the other white with pink geometric designs, add a ceremonial elegance to the procession. The riders, dressed in richly decorated attire, reflect the pageantry and pride of the medieval and Renaissance eras. This lithograph embodies the 19th-century Romantic fascination with medieval knighthood, chivalry, and the grandeur of historical reenactments. The level of detail in the armor, horse trappings, and banners showcases the exceptional craftsmanship of 19th-century lithographic printing. The riders’ fluid movements and the horses’ disciplined postures create a sense of motion, emphasizing the formality and significance of the occasion. Condition Summary: The lithograph remains in excellent condition, with vibrant hand coloring that accentuates the deep reds, golds, and silvers of the scene. Minor signs of age, such as light foxing in the margins, are present but do not detract from the overall aesthetic appeal. The paper has retained its strength and quality, making this a valuable and historically significant collectible. Framing Tips: To best present this lithograph, consider a high-quality frame with UV-protected museum glass or acrylic to prevent fading. A wide mat border in neutral or warm tones will enhance the rich reds and golds of the artwork while maintaining an elegant presentation. A dark wooden or gold-accented frame will complement the regal theme of the piece. Using archival mounting materials will ensure its preservation for generations to come. See less