Das alte Irrenhaus in Wien (Narrenturm), "Kaiser Joseph-Gugelhupf" genannt
undatiert
Medium
Aquarell auf Papier
Dimensions
16,2 x 21,2 cm
Classification
Zeichnung
Department
Belvedere Collection
Museum
Belvedere
Credit
Belvedere, Vienna
Accession Number
4664/14
Art Historical Context
In the Belvedere Collection in Vienna, Franz Geras's undated watercolor *Das alte Irrenhaus Wien (Narrenturm "Kaiser Joseph-Gugelhupf" genannt* captures a quirky slice of Enlightenment-era architecture. This delicate aquarell on paper, measuring just 16.2 x 21.2 cm, depicts theenturm, Vienna's former insane asylum built in 1784 under Emperor Joseph II. Nicknamed "Kaiser Joseph-Gugelhupf" for its bundt-cake-like shape with rounded towers, the structure was one of Europe's first dedicated facilities for the mentally ill, reflecting reforms aimed at humane treatment rather than punishment. Geras...