H. Jenny, Parade of Unity: The Allied Cities and Territories with Their Banners, 1855, Print

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1855 Parade of Unity – The Allied Cities and Territories with Their Banners This magnificent hand-colored lithograph, created by H. … Read more 1855 Parade of Unity – The Allied Cities and Territories with Their Banners This magnificent 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 grand reenactments of 1853, celebrating the historic alliances, civic pride, and military traditions of the Swiss Confederation and its allied regions. The artwork presents a powerful scene of unity and heraldic grandeur as representatives from various Swiss cities and territories march together, each carrying a banner symbolizing their homeland. The array of flags, meticulously rendered in bold and contrasting colors, highlights the diverse political landscape of medieval Switzerland. from the golden imperial eagle to the fortified castles and heraldic crosses, each emblem tells the story of regional identity, independence, and allegiance. At the forefront, two commanding figures lead the march. One, clad in brilliant yellow and black, proudly carries the imperial eagle of the Holy Roman Empire, symbolizing Switzerland’s historical ties to the empire. His confident stance and direct gaze convey authority and determination. Beside him, a striking figure in red, black, and white holds another imperial banner, reinforcing the theme of loyalty and power. Their elaborately detailed Renaissance-style uniforms, complete with plumed hats, intricate embroidery, and doublets, enhance the ceremonial elegance of the scene. Behind them, a procession of flag bearers continues the march, each soldier carrying a banner representing a city or canton, including Solothurn, Fribourg, and Lucerne. Their synchronized movements and solemn expressions reflect the discipline and unity of the Confederation. The detailed rendering of their weapons, sashes, and garments showcases the exceptional craftsmanship of 19th-century lithographic artistry, capturing the Romantic-era fascination with Swiss independence and military heritage. This lithograph is a testament to the enduring pride and resilience of Switzerland’s historic alliances. It evokes the grandeur of medieval pageantry while paying homage to the political and military strength that defined the region. The careful balance of color, texture, and composition makes this a visually striking and historically significant piece. Condition Summary: The lithograph remains in good condition, with richly preserved hand coloring that enhances the bold heraldic designs. Minor signs of aging, such as light foxing in the margins, are present but do not detract from the overall appeal. The paper remains strong and well-preserved, making this a valuable addition to any historical collection. Framing Tips: For the best display, consider a high-quality frame with UV-protected museum glass or acrylic to prevent fading. A wide mat border in neutral tones will accentuate the vivid colors of the banners while maintaining an elegant presentation. A dark wooden or gold-accented frame will complement the historic significance of the piece. Using archival mounting materials will ensure its long-term preservation. See less