The Bernese Banners A Splendid Procession of Knights & Honor Guards, 1855, Print

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Title: The Old Bernese Banners – A Splendid Procession of Knights and Honor Guards : This magnificent hand-colored lithograph is … Read more Title: The Old Bernese Banners – A Splendid Procession of Knights and Honor Guards : 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 artist Heinrich Jenny and lithographed by Kümmerly and Wittmer, this striking image captures a grand ceremonial display featuring Bernese heraldry, noble attire, and military pageantry. At the forefront of the composition stand two ancient Bernese banner bearers, each clad in medieval-style armor. The first holds a red and yellow banner adorned with the iconic Bernese bear, the historical coat of arms of Bern, which has symbolized the city’s power and sovereignty since the Middle Ages. The second carries a richly embroidered white flag featuring a black bear, which is possibly an earlier or ceremonial variation of Bern’s heraldic symbol. To their right, a nobleman in a striking black and silver Renaissance-style outfit raises a ceremonial flag with a central emblem of a crowned lion and a bird, surrounded by red and black stripes. This flag may represent a specific Bernese noble family, a military guild, or an allied region within the Swiss Confederation. His elaborate attire suggests a high-ranking figure within the historical reenactment. Beside him stands another distinguished gentleman dressed in red, gold, and white, evoking the grandeur of the era. In the background, a well-disciplined formation of honor guards marches in unison, carrying long ceremonial halberds. Their striking red and white uniforms, complemented by plumed hats, exude authority and precision. These soldiers likely represent the Swiss mercenary tradition, renowned for its disciplined ranks and fearsome reputation in European warfare. The carefully choreographed procession reflects the pride and meticulous historical research that went into the 1853 reenactment of Bern’s 500-year membership in the Swiss Confederation. The level of detail in this lithograph is extraordinary. from the reflective sheen on the knights’ armor to the flowing fabric of the banners, Jenny masterfully captures both movement and realism. The layering of figures, the fluttering of the banners, and the crisp, vivid colors create a sense of spectacle and grandeur, befitting such an important historical celebration. Summary of Condition: The print is in good condition, with minor signs of age, including slight foxing along the edges and faint discoloration in the margins. The colors, especially the rich reds, blues, and golds of the banners and uniforms, remain vibrant. The fine details of the figures, weapons, and fabric patterns are crisp, maintaining the historical and artistic integrity of the piece. Framing Tips: To emphasize the regal and historical nature of this lithograph, a gold or deep mahogany wood frame would complement its colors and intricate details. A neutral archival matting in off-white or cream would provide a subtle contrast, ensuring the artwork remains the focal point. UV-protective glass is recommended to preserve the delicate pigments and prevent fading over time. A shadow box frame with a floating mount would enhance the three-dimensional effect of the banners and figures, making it an impressive centerpiece in a historical collection or museum-quality display. See less