The Sardinian Polka

Colour lithograph music sheet cover for 'The Sardinian Polka'. Unknown composer and unknown publisher. 19th century. Colour lithograph showing a large ornate gold oval frame topped by a crown. Inside is an image of Victor Emmanuel II astride a white horse on a rocky outcrop by the sea. Horse is facing left and has a foreleg raised. Victor Emmanuel II is dressed in a blue military like outfit with medals and a sash across the body and a cloak and bicorne hat. There is a sword by his side. He is looking slightly to the right. Lower end of frame has the name 'VICTOR EMANUEL II'. Victor Emmanuel II was King of Sardinia 1849-1861. In 1861 he became the first king of the whole of Italy, ruling until his death in 1878.