Kümmerly and Wittmer after H. Jenny, Fest Album, 1855, Paper

Details

Description

This stunning hand-colored lithograph, created by H. Jenny and lithographed by Kümmerly and Wittmer, is part of the 'Fest Album' … Read more This stunning hand-colored lithograph, created by H. Jenny and lithographed by Kümmerly and Wittmer, is part of the 'Fest Album' celebrating Bern’s entry into the Swiss Confederation on March 6, 1353.

Published in Bern and Zurich in 1855, this large oblong folio documents the grand historical reenactments and processions held in 1853, marking key moments of Swiss unity and military tradition. The composition features a regal procession of mounted figures representing the cities of Freiburg and Strasbourg. At the center of the scene rides the 'Bürgermeister von Strassburg' (Mayor of Strasbourg), clad in an opulent purple robe with gold embroidery. His commanding presence and extended arm suggest an air of authority, signifying Strasbourg’s historical role in Swiss alliances and regional governance. His horse, an elegant dappled gray, is richly adorned with golden harnesses and a decorative red and gold saddlecloth. To his left rides 'Wilh. von Affry von Freiburg', a noble representative of Freiburg, wearing a striking white and black surcoat with heraldic markings. His horse, equally regal, moves forward with a poised gait, reinforcing the grandeur of the event. To the right of the mayor, two standard-bearers carry banners representing Freiburg and Strasbourg. The Freiburg flag, a bold black and white design with golden fringes, is carried by a rider in a matching tunic. The Strasbourg flag, featuring red and white diagonal stripes, is held by a figure in a red and white uniform, his plumed hat adding a sense of movement to the composition. The detailed depiction of the riders, their ceremonial garb, and the richly adorned horses captures the essence of 19th-century Romanticism’s fascination with medieval pageantry. This lithograph reflects the deep-rooted pride in Swiss and allied city histories, highlighting their shared heritage of resilience and political strength. The precise rendering of textiles, armor, and equestrian equipment showcases the craftsmanship of the period’s lithographic artistry.

Condition Summary: The lithograph is in excellent condition, with beautifully preserved hand coloring that enhances the richness of the composition. Minor signs of age, such as light foxing in the margins, are present but do not detract from the artwork’s overall appeal. The paper remains strong and well-structured, making this an outstanding collectible for historical enthusiasts. See less