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

LEERMANS, Pieter (fl.1649 - 1706)

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

Date: 1682

Media: oil on copper

Size: 30.0 x 22.3 cm

Acquired: 1950; Gift; Mary Collin

Accession Number: NMW A 37

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.

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