Elector Johann Wilhelm von Pfalz-Neuburg on Horseback

As a type, the portrait of the noble on horseback has since ancient times been one of the most magnificent images used to represent the ruler. Douven’s depiction of the victorious Elector Johann Wilhelm von der Pfalz (1658–1716) on a stallion rampant in the courbette style with a battle in the background is an ingenious mixture of Italian, French and Flemish influences. The founder of the legendary Gallery of Paintings (Gemäldegalerie) is raised up on high here. The Elector in full armour issuing the command wears the feather-decorated three-cornered hat, a white wig and the Medal of the Golden Fleece. His monogram is woven into his red saddlecloth in gold thread. The portrait on horseback functioned to represent the Elector in the Audience antechamber at the Düsseldorf City Castle and later was the first painting greeting visitors to the Gemäldegalerie. Douven had a central role in the Düsseldorf Court, acting as art agent, initiator and Superintendent of the Gemäldegalerie and with his portrait output helped enhance the Elector’s absolutist powers. (Bettina Baumgärtel)