Goetz von Berlichingen Writing his Memoirs

Goetz von Berlichingen Writing his Memoirs is a powerful lithograph created by Eugène Delacroix between 1836 and 1843. Executed on wove paper, this impression represents the second state of four, highlighting Delacroix's sophisticated command of the printmaking medium. The subject draws directly from the life of the 16th-century German knight, Goetz von Berlichingen, a figure whose rebellious spirit and famous "iron hand" were immortalized in Johann Wolfgang von Goethe’s dramatic 1773 play. This Romantic fascination with medieval heroes fueled Delacroix's lifelong interest in historical narrative and dramatic, emotionally charged composition.

The scene captures the formidable knight surrounded by the tools and reminders of his tumultuous life. A central male figure, presumably Goetz himself, is depicted engaged in the act of writing, documenting his memories while still wearing elements of his armor, signaling his persistent identity as a warrior even in the quiet pursuit of literature. The intimate composition also includes other figures, suggesting the presence of women within his household, which contrasts the domestic environment with the severity of the armored knight. Delacroix masterfully utilizes the inherent contrast of lithography, employing deep shadows and dramatic chiaroscuro effects to emphasize the psychological intensity of the memoirist.

This seminal work demonstrates Delacroix’s skill as a draftsman, creating numerous prints related to German history and literature throughout his career, cementing his role as a pivotal figure in 19th-century French Romanticism. As a high-quality example of Romantic-era prints, this work showcases the growing importance of lithography for artistic expression and widespread reproduction. The piece currently resides in the extensive collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art. High-resolution images of important works, including Goetz von Berlichingen Writing his Memoirs, are often placed in the public domain, ensuring global access to the profound output of the master Delacroix.