1835 Hand-Colored Lithograph: A 17th Century Guardroom - Soldiers at Rest

About this sheet

Description of the Print

This print, titled "Eene Wachtkamer uit de XVIIde Eeuw" (A Guardroom from the 17th Century), depicts a humorous and somewhat lively scene set in a 17th-century guardroom. The composition centers around a group of soldiers in colorful uniforms, depicted in a moment of leisure or exhaustion. Two soldiers are slumped in chairs, asleep at a table, with one having fallen asleep at the table, his head resting on his arms. Another soldier stands at the doorway, holding a halberd, seemingly amused by his companions' state. The room is dimly lit, with a single candle burning on a mantle above the soldiers, casting a warm glow over the scene. The architecture and furnishings reflect the style of the 17th century, with heavy wooden furniture and stone floors.

Artist:
- J.C. Klinkenberg Sterk: The artist responsible for the original drawing or painting. Klinkenberg Sterk was known for his detailed and often humorous depictions of historical scenes, capturing the daily lives of soldiers, townsfolk, and other characters from various periods.

Publisher:
- Soetens & Fils: The publisher of this print, a well-known lithography firm that produced and distributed high-quality prints throughout the 19th century.

Lithographer:
- L.A. Vincent: The lithographer who transferred Klinkenberg Sterk's detailed and characterful scene onto the lithographic stone, preserving the humor and historical detail of the original artwork.

Date of Publication:
- 1835: The print was produced in 1835, during a time when scenes from everyday life in historical settings were popular in European art, often infused with humor or a sense of nostalgia.

What Makes This Print Interesting:
This print is interesting due to its depiction of a light-hearted moment in a historical setting, providing a glimpse into the more relaxed and human side of military life in the 17th century. The contrast between the soldiers' elaborate uniforms and their informal, almost comical postures adds to the charm of the scene. The careful attention to period details, such as the furniture, clothing, and architecture, combined with the humorous subject matter, makes this print an engaging and enjoyable piece. It reflects both the skill of the artist in capturing a moment of everyday life and the lithographer's ability to bring that moment to life in print.

Condition:
The print is in fair to good condition, with some visible age-related wear, including slight discoloration and spotting, particularly around the edges. The colors remain vibrant, and the details of the scene are well-preserved. The paper is intact, with no significant tears or creases, ensuring that the overall image retains its clarity and charm. The humorous nature of the scene, combined with the fine details and warm tones, continues to make this print a delightful example of 19th-century lithography.