A Celebration of Swiss Heritage and Strength, 1855, Paper

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Title: The Cantons of Uri and Schwyz – A Celebration of Swiss Heritage and Strength : This striking hand-colored lithograph … Read more Title: The Cantons of Uri and Schwyz – A Celebration of Swiss Heritage and Strength : This striking 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 artist Heinrich Jenny and lithographed by Kümmerly and Wittmer, this composition showcases two of the most historically significant founding cantons of Switzerland, Uri and Schwyz, marching in a grand ceremonial procession. On the left, the Canton of Uri is represented by a banner bearer dressed in resplendent yellow and black, with an elaborate feathered hat and a confident stance. He carries a golden flag with a black bull’s head, which has long been the heraldic symbol of Uri. The bull represents strength, resilience, and the canton's deep-rooted pastoral and alpine traditions. Behind him, a group of soldiers in matching uniforms stands in disciplined formation, carrying long halberds and muskets, a nod to the canton’s military heritage and its role in the early struggles of the Swiss Confederation. On the right, the Canton of Schwyz is depicted in bold red and gold uniforms, with a richly dressed banner bearer holding a solid red flag with a white cross, the historic flag of Schwyz. This canton played a crucial role in the foundation of the Swiss Confederation and is considered one of the original members of the alliance. The white cross on a red field later inspired the national flag of Switzerland. The Schwyz procession stands proudly, with noble postures and refined uniforms, reflecting the canton’s importance in shaping the political identity of Switzerland. The attention to detail in this lithograph is remarkable. The intricate embroidery on the clothing, the realistic rendering of fabrics, and the shading techniques used to create depth and movement make this a visually engaging piece. The contrast between the radiant golds of Uri and the deep reds of Schwyz emphasizes the historical individuality of the two cantons while uniting them under a shared national identity. This artwork commemorates the five hundredth anniversary of Bern’s entry into the Swiss Confederation and serves as a powerful tribute to the cantons that played a foundational role in Switzerland’s independence. It captures both the military prowess and the symbolic unity of the Confederation, making it an essential piece of Swiss historical iconography. Summary of Condition: The print is in good condition, with minor signs of aging such as slight foxing along the margins and mild discoloration on the edges. The colors remain rich and vibrant, particularly in the gold, black, and red hues that define the uniforms and banners. The intricate detailing in the shading, fabric textures, and heraldry is well-preserved, maintaining the authenticity of the historical representation. Framing Tips: To highlight the regal contrast of this lithograph, a deep gold or rich mahogany frame would enhance the historical and heraldic significance of the composition. A neutral archival mat in off-white or warm beige would balance the bold colors without overpowering them. UV-resistant glass is recommended to protect the pigments and maintain the depth of the shading. A shadow box frame with a floating mount would add depth, emphasizing the banners and detailed uniforms, making it a commanding display in any historical or art collection. See less