Monument with Victoria and Sovereign, ca. 1500–1600
Pen and brown ink, graphite, brown wash
Sheet dimensions43,3 × 32,9 cm
About the workMonumental columns have been used to glorify sovereigns since antiquity. In this example, the seated ruler’s neck chain distinguishes him as a member of the noble order of chivalry, the Order of the Golden Fleece. He is accompanied on the neighbouring column by Victoria, the goddess of victory, who is holding up a laurel wreath. The four enslaved people at the foot of the column are meant to symbolise his power. Today, the identity of the draughtsman remains unknown. It was probably commissioned by Cosimo I de' Medici, the first Grand Duke of Tuscany, who wanted to fortify his claim to power with a monument such as this.
AccessionCollection of the Kunstakademie Düsseldorf
Provenance[…]; seit 1932 Dauerleihgabe der Kunstakademie Düsseldorf
Inventory numberKA (FP) 146
