Peter, Baron Lamotte - Friedrich Fleischmann

A formal nineteenth-century engraving of Peter, Baron Lamotte, featuring his military uniform and various decorations.

This engraving depicts Peter, Baron Lamotte, a high-ranking military officer, presented in a formal oval frame. The portrait captures the subject in his official uniform, complete with epaulettes and a sash, adorned with various military decorations and orders. The artist, Friedrich Fleischmann, employs precise line work to define the textures of the fabric and the metallic sheen of the medals, demonstrating the technical rigour common in early nineteenth-century printmaking.

The composition follows the conventions of aristocratic portraiture, focusing on the subject's stern expression and dignified posture. Below the oval frame, the print includes a detailed inscription in German, which lists the Baron's titles, military ranks, and the specific orders he held, such as the Order of Maria Theresa and the Legion of Honour. A small coat of arms is positioned centrally between the columns of text, adding to the formal and commemorative nature of the work.

Fleischmann, a German engraver and painter, was active during a period when such portrait prints were essential for documenting the appearance and status of military and political figures. The background of the oval is filled with horizontal hatching, a technique that provides contrast and draws the viewer's eye toward the subject. The overall aesthetic is one of order and discipline, reflecting the military culture of the era. This print serves as a historical record of Baron Lamotte, documenting his career and the honours he received during his service. The clarity of the engraving ensures that even the smallest details of the medals and the lettering remain legible, making it a fine example of the portrait engraving tradition in Germany.