Thusnelda at the Triumphal Entry of Germanicus into Rome

Karl Theodor von Piloty

Created:
Movement:
1880
Realism
key Notes:
Historical spectacle, Captive dignity
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Dimensions:
53 x 77 1/4 in. (134.6 x 196.2 cm)
medium:
Oil on canvas
story of the work:

"Thusnelda at the Triumphal Entry of Germanicus into Rome" is a historical painting by German artist Karl Theodor von Piloty, created around 1875. The work depicts Thusnelda, a Germanic princess, witnessing the triumphal return of the Roman general Germanicus to Rome. This scene is set against the backdrop of Roman imperial grandeur, highlighting themes of conquest and cultural clash. Piloty was known for his large-scale historical paintings that often emphasized dramatic narratives and emotional depth. The painting reflects the 19th-century fascination with classical history and the Romantic movement's interest in heroic subjects. The exact circumstances of its commission and exhibition history are not well-documented. The painting is part of the collection at the Museum of Fine Arts in Budapest.

Description of the work:

"Thusnelda at the Triumphal Entry of Germanicus into Rome" by Karl Theodor von Piloty, created around 1875, is an oil on canvas painting that depicts a historical scene from ancient Rome. The composition centers on Thusnelda, a captured Germanic princess, who is portrayed with a mixture of dignity and despair as she witnesses the triumphal procession of Germanicus. The artist employs a rich color palette, utilizing deep reds and golds to convey the opulence of the Roman triumph. The figures are rendered with meticulous attention to detail, showcasing Piloty's skill in capturing the textures of fabric and the expressions of the subjects. The background features a crowd of Roman citizens, emphasizing the grandeur of the event and the contrast between the celebratory atmosphere and Thusnelda's plight. The dramatic use of light and shadow enhances the emotional intensity of the scene, drawing the viewer's eye to Thusnelda's expression. Overall, the painting exemplifies the historical genre, combining narrative depth with technical proficiency.

Artwork Photograph Source:
Metropolitan Museum of Art

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Thusnelda at the Triumphal Entry of Germanicus into Rome