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Notes
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The scene shows the funeral of Walther von der Vogelweide, the medieval lyric poet and minnesinger (singer of love). His body is carried aloft on a bier whilst birds fly around. Walter was a knight and a Catholic (although in favour of German unity) whose last name means 'of the bird-meadow'. He features as a character in Wagner’s 'Tannhäuser' (1845) and is immortalised in a poem by Longfellow (1807–1882), who was an admirer: VOGELWEID, the Minnesinger, When he left this world of ours, Laid his body in the cloister, Under Wurtzburg's minster towers. And he gave the monks his treasures, Gave them all with this behest They should feed the birds at noontide Daily on his place of rest; Saying, 'From these wandering minstrels I have learned the art of song; Let me now repay the lessons They have taught so well and long.
Title
The Funeral of Walther von der Vogelweide (c.1170–c.1230), the Minnesinger
Medium
oil on canvas
Measurements
H 71 x W 81.5 cm
Accession number
884906.1
Acquisition method
gift from Miss Hildegarde Miller, 1975
Work type
Painting
