How does this artwork elucidate its Description and classification?
In the preserved original frame there is a circular reliquary hole at the bottom. A gilded heraldic shield with the imperial emblem - a double-headed eagle is attached to the plate.
The central position of the painting in the composition of the entire western wall of the chapel and the exceptional position of the monarch required the depiction of the face from the front view. The detailed underdrawing of the face as well as the generous layout of the drapery overlapping the frame can be seen in the images taken by infrared reflectography. These confirm that the original design was not changed during the execution of the painting.
The painter's style is identical to other works attributed to Master Theodoric. The painting is characterised by the perfect harmony of grey and ochre tones in the hair and beard and a velvety brown face with a concentrated expression of dark eyes. The pinkish-red robes have been partially damaged by the washing off of the top glazes and the underdrawing shines through in places. The background of the painting and the frame are covered with relief decoration. Charlemagne's head was adorned with a golden imperial crown. This was probably torn off during the siege of Karlštejn by the Hussites, when the other paintings suffered in the same way. The gold was used to pay mercenaries to the defenders of the castle.
Master Theodoric infrared reflectography Hussites Karlštejn imperial crown Charlemagne