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18th-Century German Engraving, Allegory of War, Poem & Naval View
€780
$875 · £660
Original print, not a reproduction.
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- Date
- Not stated
- Sheet size
- 15.9 × 12.2 in (40.5 × 31 cm)
- Condition
- Good. Well-preserved for its age. Minor age toning and faint foxing spots throughout; a few handling creases and edge wear visible, but no major damage. The handwritten ink remains legible and strong. A fine plate mark is visible. Professionally matted.
- Collection
- Ships & sea battles
- Stock no.
- f_46010762
A rare and intriguing 18th-century German engraving combining a finely detailed allegorical scene of naval warfare with a poetic handwritten reflection on military life, ambition, and personal virtue. Likely created in the early 1700s, the piece was produced in the German-speaking world, possibly in the Holy Roman Empire, and is distinguished by its symbolic complexity and the use of Kurrentschrift (German cursive) script.
The upper half of the recto features a powerful composition: a central cartouche frames a bustling port or fortress under siege, with ships, cannons, and fortifications. Surrounding the image are flags, drums, cannonballs, and sabres, iconography rich in military symbolism. Above the cartouche is a crested helmet, enhancing the martial theme. The visual suggests a celebration or commemoration of military strength, possibly linked to a graduation, honorific, or personal presentation within a regiment or academy.
Beneath the illustration, a deeply personal poem reflects on the noble yet grim duties of a soldier. It praises those who serve with integrity and courage, while confronting the inevitability of death. The language suggests Enlightenment ideals, honor, reason, and moral reflection.
On the reverse is another poetic text, written in the same careful hand. It appears as a more introspective or perhaps ironic commentary on vanity, ambition, and military power. The speaker distances himself from pride or excessive self-display, reflecting on the transience of glory and the tyranny of unchecked power.
Translated excerpt (front):
"Oh, how blessed is the soldier’s life
Who fulfills his duty with a pure gaze,
Who meets the foe with loyal arm
And courage even when few remain..."
Translated excerpt (back):
"Why should I go on writing
Of Braunsfeld’s worries and ambition?
Such things bring so little gain,
The game of honor ends in pain..."
This piece is a fascinating combination of visual art, poetry, and social commentary, ideal for collectors interested in military history, German Enlightenment literature, or early 18th-century decorative engravings. It also holds great decorative appeal with its detailed etching and elegant script.
Condition report:
Well-preserved for its age. Minor age toning and faint foxing spots throughout; a few handling creases and edge wear visible, but no major damage. The handwritten ink remains legible and strong. A fine plate mark is visible. Professionally matted a neutral archival mat.
Framing tips:
The current display uses a light cream mat, which suit the piece well. For a more formal look, consider framing with a dark walnut or ebonized wood frame with a soft gold inner edge, to echo the engraving’s historical tone. Use museum glass* to minimize glare and protect the paper from UV light.
Technique: Engraving with manuscript ink
Maker: Unknown artist, German-speaking regions, early 18th century
