Französischer Klassizist
grand allegory of france
oil on canvas.
107 x 129 cm.
Unframed.

According to the picture's content this is probably the allegory of the reintroduction of the Bourbons after the Napoleonic era in 1814. As repeatedly addressed in the visual arts in France, we are familiar with such allegories as the Peace of the Pyrenees or Napoleon's reign. The work of Louis-Philippe Crépin (1772-1851) "The Return of the Bourbons in 1814" has become famous. This allegorical painting should also be understood in this context. The figures are placed in two rows next to each other in two levels: In the upper part of the picture, in clouds in the centre, the female allegory of truth unveiled by the god of time, Chronos. On the right, followed by "Justice", then Abundantia with cornucopia, next to a pharmacy with glorious laurel and funeral torch, followed by flying putti with the tricolour. On the left female allegories of concord, standing against the dark figures on the left edge of the picture, represented by falling warriors and demons, below a figure with a snake. On the lower ground level there is the youthful allegory of Bourbon rule, in the shape of a youth with helmet and tricolour, sherpa and helmet feathers, with this figure laying his hand on the female allegory of history. A tamed lion and further symbol insertions complete the overall representation. (12207411) (11)