ROMSO Cyprus Knowledge Base

Wilhelm Froehner: A French Archaeologist and Numismatist

Wilhelm Froehner, born Christian Eduard Ludwig Wilhelm on an unspecified date in Bado, France, was a renowned French archaeologist and numismatist who made significant contributions to the field of antiquities. Born into a poor family, Froehner began his career as a tutor while pursuing studies in philology at the University of Bonn.

Under the guidance of prominent scholars Otto Jahn and Friedrich Gottlieb Welcker, Froehner's academic pursuits took shape. However, he left Bonn abruptly in 1858 for reasons that remain unclear, eventually settling in Paris with Karl Benedikt Hase in 1859. It was during this period that Froehner befriended Napoleon III, who would later become a crucial figure in his life.

Froehner's association with Napoleon III led to him becoming one of the emperor's intimate friends and collaborators. Together, they worked on Napoleon III's History of Julius Caesar (1865-1866). His connections also brought him close to prominent figures such as Ernest Renan and Adrien de Longperier, who would later play significant roles in his career.

As a curator at the Musée du Louvre, Froehner was tasked with creating catalogues for various antiquities collections. Despite initial setbacks due to discrepancies caused by the purchase of the Campana collection, he persevered and successfully compiled Greek inscriptions and ancient sculptures. However, his criticism of Gustave Flaubert's Salammbô earned him a scathing response from the author.

Froehner's professional trajectory was marked by both successes and setbacks. He obtained temporary attaché positions at the Louvre but faced challenges due to mismanagement and personal conflicts with colleagues like Longperier. Nevertheless, his ties with Napoleon III secured him an appointment as assistant curator of the Louvre museum in 1866.

Following a period of imprisonment during the 1870 War for intelligence, Froehner was appointed knight of the Legion of Honour and took up the post of curator for imperial palaces' art objects while maintaining his position at the Louvre. Despite facing absurd accusations and losing his duties and wages, Froehner continued to work diligently.

Career Highlights

- Created catalogues for Greek inscriptions and ancient sculptures
- Collaborated with Napoleon III on History of Julius Caesar (1865-1866)
- Appointed assistant curator of