Artwork preview

Partisan of the Polish Noble Guard of Friedrich August I of Saxony, who twice ruled as king of Poland (1697–1704 and 1709–1733)

The Metropolitan Museum of Art

The object is a ceremonial staff or scepter with a white flame-shaped finial on top. It features a gold-colored sunburst design with a black cross at its center, flanked by two silver-colored eagles with outstretched wings. The staff is adorned with a decorative silver and gold wrap around the middle, and a long tassel made of beige-colored threads hangs from below. The staff appears to be attached to a dark wooden handle. A portion of another similar object with a silver-colored sword-like finial and a dragon or horse design is visible on the left side. The background is a light blue wall with shadows cast by the objects.

Artwork Details

Date
ca. 1720
Medium
Steel, pierced, etched, and gilt; wood
Culture
German
Dimensions
351 × 624 px
Public Domain
Yes
Museum Record
View original
Palette