Art Collections Online

Prince Eugene Alexander of Thurn and Taxis (1652-1714)

LEERMANS, Pieter (fl.1649 - 1706)

(Amgueddfa Cymru regrets that we are not able to provide an image for this item at this time. This is either due to copyright restrictions, or the item is awaiting digitisation. We apologise for any inconvenience caused.)

Date: 1682

Media: oil on copper

Size: 30.0 x 22.3 cm

Acquired: 1950; Gift; Mary Collin

Accession Number: NMW A 37

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The modern-day term taxi comes from the name of one of the richest families in Europe, the Thurn and Taxis. This family made a fortune organizing the transport of mail in the Holy Roman Empire. Eugene Alexander elevated the family’s status enormously. He became Prince of the Empire, married into a German ruling family, and was awarded the Order of the Golden Fleece, which he wears here. A pupil of Gerard Dou, Leermans followed his meticulous manner, here painting on copper to achieve a finer finish.