Niklaus Manuel

The Bernese painter, draftsman, poet, and statesman Niklaus Manuel (circa 1484–1530) is considered one of the outstanding figures of the early modern period in Switzerland. His artistic work has long attracted interest in international research. The Swiss Institute for Art Research (SIK-ISEA) now presents a systematic compilation of Manuel's work with the Catalogue raisonné. This catalog, published in collaboration with the Burgerbibliothek Bern, showcases the results of a long-term research project by SIK-ISEA and brings knowledge about Niklaus Manuel up to date. This allows for a renewed engagement with Manuel's artistic output, which is characterized by originality and exceptional drawing quality, and grants the artist his rightful place in the art history of the early modern period. The Catalogue raisonné includes two essays by Michael Egli and Hans Christoph von Tavel, which contextualize Manuel's oeuvre within the framework of previous intensive studies and embed it in the historical context of the early modern period. The catalog section comprises descriptions and verified information on approximately 300 drawings, sketches, woodcuts, panel paintings, small paintings, and wall paintings. The commentary on the works presents current research findings, such as the creation of a work, art technological investigations, patrons and buyers, relationships between works, and reception, along with corresponding new interpretations. Additionally, provenance, literature, and exhibition records are provided for each work. Alongside a newly compiled biography of the artist, a separate contribution provides insights into the art technological examination of the so-called Dominican altar. Over 500 high-quality color reproductions accompany the publication and contribute to contemporary perception.