Joseph II (* February 13, 1741, Vienna; † February 20, 1790, Vienna) was co-regent with his mother, Maria Theresa, from 1765 to 1780. After his mother's death, he implemented numerous reforms as sole ruler (1780-1790), such as the Edict of Toleration and the abolition of serfdom.
The Roman Emperor Marcus Aurelius served as the model for the equestrian statue. The four round pillars of the surrounding enclosure each feature four medallions depicting scenes from the emperor's life.
EN:
Joseph II (* March 13, 1741, Vienna; † February 20, 1790 in Vienna) was co-regent of his mother Maria Theresa from 1765 to 1780. After his mother's death, as a sole ruler (1780-1790) he implemented numerous reforms, such as the tolerance patent or the abolition of serfdom.
The Roman emperor Marcus Aurelius served as a model for the equestrian statue.
The 4 round pillars of the surrounding enclosure are each provided with 4 medallions. These show scenes from the life of the emperor.