lithograph, paper, ?????? cm in light of the original passe - partout (sheet 45 x 60 cm); made in the 19th century by the museum office "Albertina Facsymiles" in Vienna, characteristic initials AD on the lowerpart of the composition, unique print from the only unique edition of Durer's graphics published at the end of the 19th century, dryseal ALBERTINA p.d.
(Albertina is one ofthe most important art museums in Austria, holding the largest and most valuable collection of drawings and prints by Albrecht Dürer).
Albrecht Dürer's sketch entitled "Design of the Triumphal Carriage of Emperor Maximilian" is a work commissioned by Emperor Maximilian I Habsburg, one ofDürer's most importantpatrons.The emperor,seekingto perpetuate his image asa powerfulruler,commissioned a number of works with propaganda themes from the artist. One of themwasprecisely the design of a triumphal carriage.
This sketch waspart ofa largerundertaking - a monumentalwork called "Triumph of Maximilian," which was tobe anengravingdepictingthe emperor 's triumphalprocession. Itwas tosymbolize thepower andglory of his reign. The design of the triumphal carriage itselfdepicted a richly decorated chariotpulledby horses,onwhich the emperorsat, surrounded by allegorical figures and symbols of hisvictoriesandpower.
The triumphal carriage was tobefull of decorations such as coats of arms, ornaments and scenes from the emperor 's life.Dürerpaidattention todetailin his design,showingtheelaborateornamentation thatwas characteristic of hiswork.Although the design of the carriagewas allegorical,full of symbolism, itwasalso a testament toDürer's technical and artisticproficiency.
It is interesting to note that "Triumph of Maximilian"wasnevercompletedin the form originally planned.However,parts ofthe work, includingDürer's sketch, havesurvivedto the presentday andprovideinsightinto the emperor's ambitions as well as the artist's talent. The sketch isconsideredone of themost important propagandaworks of the Renaissance, aswell asan example ofDürer's mastery ofprintmaking and drawing.
