Clemens Lothar Wenzel, Prince Metternich (1773-1859)
Thomas Lawrence·1815
Historical Context
Lawrence painted Prince Metternich around 1815 as part of the Waterloo Chamber series. Metternich, Austria's Foreign Minister and the architect of the Congress of Vienna (1814-15), was the dominant figure in European diplomacy for three decades. His conservative system of alliances and suppression of liberal movements defined European politics until 1848. Lawrence's portrait captures the urbane intelligence and calculated charm that made Metternich one of the most effective diplomats in European history. Now in the Royal Collection at Windsor, the portrait is part of the comprehensive visual record of the Allied leadership that Lawrence created during his European tour.
Technical Analysis
Lawrence captures Metternich's legendary charm and self-assurance with an elegant, polished composition. The portrait conveys the diplomat's urbane sophistication through careful attention to the refined features and aristocratic bearing.
Look Closer
- ◆Notice the legendary charm and self-assurance Lawrence captures in Metternich: the diplomat's polished elegance is visible in every aspect of the composition.
- ◆Look at the refined, handsome features that made Metternich as socially formidable as he was politically effective.
- ◆Observe the elegant, polished composition: Lawrence gives Metternich the most sophisticated of his Waterloo Chamber treatments.
- ◆Find the Royal Collection Windsor setting: Metternich's portrait is central to the Allied leadership gallery — the architect of the Vienna settlement alongside his monarchs.
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