Max-Joseph-Denkmal, Bronze memorial statue near National Theater, Munich, Germany
The Max-Joseph Memorial is a bronze statue located on Maximilianplatz between the National Theater and the Residence. It depicts the king seated on an ornate throne with a scepter in his left hand and his right hand raised, surrounded by classical ornamental details.
The memorial was commissioned by Munich City Council in 1824 and completed by sculptor Christian Daniel Rauch in 1835, five years after the king's death. The swift completion reflects how deeply his constitutional reforms shaped the city's development and identity.
The base reliefs show scenes of citizens enjoying constitutional rights, displayed alongside figures of scholars, priests, and artists. These representations reflect the values the king worked to establish during his reign.
The memorial stands at the intersection of central axes between the Residence and the National Theater in the city center. Wheelchair access is limited, but the location is easily reached on foot and offers good views from all directions.
The king initially refused to be shown seated, yet the finished work displays him enthroned with elaborate classical details. This contrast between his original wishes and the sculptor's final vision reveals a tension between royal authority and artistic choice.
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