A Northern Raphael
The narrative follows the life and tragic death of a talented artist from Bacharach, who, after receiving support from the Archbishop-Elector, pursued his artistic ambitions in Rome, Munich, and eventually settled in Dresden. His career flourished, earning him respect and nobility, but his life took a dark turn when he was brutally murdered on a walk home after a day of overseeing construction on his new house. The investigation into his death reveals a community in shock, as the artist was well-liked and respected. Initial searches yield no leads, but as the police delve deeper, they uncover a series of confessions and accusations involving two soldiers, Fischer and Kaltofen. Fischer, a dull-witted gunner, initially confesses to the murder under duress but later retracts his statements, claiming innocence. Kaltofen, a more charismatic and intelligent soldier, eventually admits to the crime but also implicates Fischer as an accomplice. The case becomes increasingly convoluted, with Kaltofen's shifting confessions and Fischer's coerced admissions leading to public outcry and confusion. Despite Kaltofen's eventual confession of sole responsibility, the authorities remain suspicious of Fischer's involvement, leading to a trial that captures the attention of the entire city. As the trial unfolds, the evidence against Fischer weakens, while Kaltofen's character and motives come under scrutiny. Ultimately, Kaltofen is sentenced to death, while Fischer is released but remains under police supervision, leaving the community divided over the true nature of justice. The aftermath of the trial sees a public spectacle surrounding Kaltofen's execution, which incites further violence and crime in Dresden, illustrating the societal impact of the murders. The story concludes with reflections on the lives of the victims and the legacy of the artist, whose untimely death resonates through the community, leaving behind a complex web of guilt, innocence, and the quest for truth.
By Sabine Baring-Gould · First published 1898 · Genre: Historical Fiction, Biographical, Crime · 8,519 words
First lines
Here and there in the galleries of North Germany and Russia may be seen paintings of delicacy and purity, delicacy of colour and purity of design, the author of which was Gerhard von Kuegelgen. The majority of his paintings are in private hands; but an Apollo, holding the dying Hyacinthus in his arms, is in the possession of the German Emperor; Moses on Horeb is in the gallery of the Academy of Fine Arts at Dresden; a St. Caecilia and an Adonis, painted in 1794 and 1795, were purchased by the Earl of Bristol; a Holy Family is in the Gallery at Cassel; and some of the sacred subjects have found their way into churches.
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A Northern Raphael is listed on Textopian as a novel by Sabine Baring-Gould, dated 1898 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Novel
- Author: Sabine Baring-Gould
- Date: 1898 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Historical Fiction, Biographical, Crime, Drama, Art
- Length: 8,519 words
- Structure: 1 section, 94 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)
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- Work identity for A Northern Raphael by Sabine Baring-Gould
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Discussion starters
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Genres
- Historical Fiction — The narrative is centered around the life and murder of the artist Gerhard von Kuegelgen, set against a historical backdrop.
- Biographical — The book details the life of Gerhard von Kuegelgen, providing insights into his personal and professional experiences.
- Crime — The plot revolves around the investigation and resolution of Kuegelgen's murder, including the exploration of criminal motives and actions.
- Drama — The emotional and moral complexities of the characters, particularly surrounding the murder and its aftermath, create a dramatic narrative.
Tags
art · history · Renaissance · Northern Europe · painting · biography · artist · cultural influence · critique · aesthetics · landscape · portraiture