Gallant courtier with pigtail c. 1820

Ludwig Emil Grimm sketched this gallant courtier, likely in the early 19th century, using pencil on paper. The figure, with his powdered wig and formal attire, embodies the aristocratic elegance of a bygone era. This image invites us to consider the social codes and power dynamics embedded in such displays of gentility. Grimm, working in a period of significant social upheaval, was no doubt aware of the changing attitudes toward the aristocracy. The detailed rendering of the courtier's costume is a record of the material culture of the time, and we can consult fashion plates and social histories to understand its significance. By exploring the visual codes of class and status, we can gain a deeper understanding of the complex relationship between art and society in 19th century Germany. The Städel Museum provides access to archival material on the artist and the cultural context, enabling scholars to better examine the politics of representation.