Who painted Capture of Joan of Arc?

Capture of Joan of Arc was painted by Adolf Alexander Dillens in 1847.

Where can I see Capture of Joan of Arc?

Capture of Joan of Arc is held by Hermitage Museum.

Can I buy a print of Capture of Joan of Arc?

Museum-quality prints of Capture of Joan of Arc are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.

Artwork

Capture of Joan of Arc

Adolf Alexander Dillens , 1847

Capture of Joan of Arc is an oil painting by Adolf Alexander Dillens. It dates from 1847 and is held in the collection of the Hermitage Museum.

About this work

Overview

Adolf Alexander Dillens, a Belgian painter born in Ghent in 1821, completed the oil work *Capture of Joan of Arc* in 1847. The canvas, now part of the State Hermitage Museum’s collection, depicts a dramatic encounter involving the French heroine, rendered in a genre‑painting manner that blends historical narrative with everyday detail.

Subject & Meaning

The central figure, a woman in a vivid red dress, is identified as Joan of Arc, poised with a sword and directing attention toward a startled armored soldier. The composition captures a moment of confrontation, emphasizing Joan’s leadership and the tension between the divine mission she embodies and the earthly forces that oppose her.

Technique & Style

Executed in oil, the painting employs a warm, dark palette that heightens the stormy sky and battlefield atmosphere. Dillens contrasts the luminous red of Joan’s attire against muted tones, using chiaroscuro to model figures and create depth. The brushwork balances detailed rendering of armor and weaponry with broader, expressive strokes for the surrounding chaos.

History & Provenance

Initially exhibited shortly after its completion, *Capture of Joan of Arc* entered the State Hermitage Museum’s holdings during the late 19th or early 20th century, where it remains on display. Dillens, who later turned to scenes of rural life in Zeeland, died in 1877, leaving this early historical piece as a notable example of his formative period.

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Artist & collection

Artist

Adolf Alexander Dillens

Adolf Alexander Dillens, a Belgian genre-painter, was born at Ghent in 1821, and received instruction from his elder brother Hendrik Dillens.

Museum

Hermitage Museum

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