Military Lithographs – Prussian Soldiers on Duty by R. Knötel, 1900
€ 160
Original antique · The actual sheet photographed · Certificate of authenticity on request · Sold unframed · Worldwide shipping from € 15 (rates)
Date
1900
Sheet size
20.3 × 28 cm (8.0 × 11.0 in)
Condition
Good
Reference
BG-13584-26 & BG-13584-27
What the condition grades mean
Excellent
Bright and clean, with no faults worth mentioning.
Very good
Only light signs of age, such as faint toning.
Good
Normal signs of age for a sheet of this period: toning, some foxing, small marks or neat old repairs.
Fair
Clear faults such as staining, tears or repairs, priced to match.
Every fault we see is written in the condition note, and the whole sheet is shown uncropped in the photos.
Condition
Both lithographs are in good antique condition with light toning and minimal foxing at the edges. Very small remains of tape in a few corners, outside the image. The colors remain vivid and the fine detail in the figures and uniforms is well-preserve.
About this sheet
Military Lithographs – Prussian Soldiers on Duty by R. Knötel, 1900 These fine lithographs, created by Richard Knötel in 1900, depict scenes of Prussian soldiers both in action and at rest. The first illustration, titled “Pioniere beim Brückenbau” (Pioneers Building a Bridge), captures the industrious efforts of military engineers constructing a pontoon bridge, a testament to the logistical skills and strength of the Prussian army. The landscape setting, complete with windmills and rolling hills, sets a tranquil backdrop against the industrious work of these soldiers.
The second image, “Auf Wache” (On Guard), reveals the more intimate side of military life. Soldiers lounge in a barracks room, some reading or resting, while others maintain a vigilant posture at their posts. This glimpse of daily life humanizes the stoic image of the Prussian army, showing the balance between strict discipline and the quieter moments of rest and camaraderie.
Both scenes are characterized by meticulous detail, capturing the distinctive uniforms, posture, and atmosphere of the late 19th-century German military. The careful rendering of uniforms, from the gleaming pickelhaube helmets to the red trim of the dark blue tunics, underscores Knötel’s reputation as one of the foremost military illustrators of his time. His works are highly regarded for their accuracy, making them invaluable to collectors of historical prints and military enthusiasts.
For anyone passionate about military history or 19th-century European art, these lithographs offer a unique window into the daily realities of the Prussian army. Their elegant composition, historical fidelity, and evocative atmosphere make them outstanding additions to any serious collection.
Condition Report: Both lithographs are in good antique condition with light toning and minimal foxing at the edges. Very small remains of tape in a few corners, outside the image. The colors remain vivid and the fine detail in the figures and uniforms is well-preserved.
Tips for framing: Use a cream or ivory mat to highlight the fine details and balance the vibrant colors. A simple dark wooden or black frame will add a classic, elegant touch, perfectly complementing these historical military scenes.
