August William (1722-1758), Prince of Prussia Antoine Pesne

The portrait presents a young man in military attire, positioned against a backdrop suggesting a battlefield scene. He is depicted from the waist up, turned slightly towards the viewer, his gaze directed outward and upward with an expression of focused intensity. The subjects posture conveys authority; he holds a long object – likely a riding crop or similar instrument – in one hand, while the other gestures forward as if issuing commands or pointing toward a distant objective.
The artist has rendered the man’s clothing in rich detail. A dark blue coat with elaborate silver fringe is layered over an orange sash, indicative of high rank and military honors. The white linen cuffs are visible beneath the sleeves, adding to the impression of meticulous presentation. His headwear – a tricorne hat adorned with a plume – further reinforces his status as a figure of importance within a military context.
The background is deliberately blurred, suggesting depth and drawing attention to the central figure. Hints of smoke, indistinct figures on horseback, and what appears to be a chaotic landscape are visible, implying an ongoing conflict or recent battle. The muted palette of grays, browns, and blues contributes to a somber atmosphere, characteristic of depictions of military leaders during this period.
Subtly, the painting conveys themes of leadership, duty, and perhaps youthful ambition. The gesture towards the distance suggests a forward-looking perspective – a vision for future campaigns or strategic goals. The overall effect is one of controlled power and readiness to engage in action, portraying an individual poised on the cusp of significant responsibility within a military hierarchy. The inclusion of the battlefield backdrop isnt merely decorative; it serves as a visual shorthand for his role and potential destiny.