Das Heilige Römische Reich Deutscher Nation 1864

Peter Becker made this watercolor painting, entitled "Das Heilige Römische Reich Deutscher Nation," at an unknown date. The deliberate application of watercolor paint creates a tapestry-like effect, mimicking the woven hangings and patterned textiles of the depicted scene. The artist’s skilled manipulation transforms the smooth, fluid properties of watercolor into a surface that evokes the rich textures of fabric and the weight of royal vestments. This translation of materiality is significant. Instead of directly depicting power through conventional oil painting techniques, Becker suggests a world of status dependent on crafted objects. Consider the labor involved in producing the textiles depicted, from spinning the thread to weaving the intricate designs. This emphasizes the economic foundation upon which the Holy Roman Empire was built. The choice of watercolor, a medium often associated with preparatory sketches rather than finished works, further complicates traditional hierarchies of art and craft. Becker elevates the status of craft by meticulously rendering its appearance, inviting us to consider the social and economic contexts embedded within both the artwork and the objects it depicts.