Who painted Egyptian Family (Sketch for "The Battle of the Pyramids")?

Egyptian Family (Sketch for "The Battle of the Pyramids") was painted by Antoine-Jean Gros in 1835.

Where can I see Egyptian Family (Sketch for "The Battle of the Pyramids")?

Egyptian Family (Sketch for "The Battle of the Pyramids") is held by Cleveland Museum of Art.

What movement is Egyptian Family (Sketch for "The Battle of the Pyramids")?

Egyptian Family (Sketch for "The Battle of the Pyramids") is associated with Romanticism.

Artwork

Egyptian Family (Sketch for "The Battle of the Pyramids")

Antoine-Jean Gros , 1835

Egyptian Family (Sketch for "The Battle of the Pyramids") is an unspecified painting by the Romanticist artist Antoine-Jean Gros. It dates from 1835 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

About this work

Overview

This sketch, titled 'Egyptian Family', is a preparatory work by Antoine-Jean Gros for his larger painting 'The Battle of the Pyramids'. It depicts a serene family scene amidst the impending chaos of war.

Subject & Meaning

The sketch shows a man, woman, and child huddled together under a tree, conveying a sense of calm before the turmoil of battle. The inclusion of General Kléber in the larger work suggests a narrative connection between the military leader and the family.

Technique & Style

Characterized by loose lines, the sketch appears to be a rapid study, likely used to test compositional elements before transferring them to the larger canvas. Gros's expressive brushwork is evident in the fluid rendering of the figures and their surroundings.

History & Provenance

Gros created this sketch while working on 'The Battle of the Pyramids', a painting that was later modified at the request of the government to expand its scope. The original painting was initially exhibited in 1810 and later modified between 1835 and 1840.

Context

Gros's experience as a soldier in Egypt during Napoleon's campaign (1798-1801) likely influenced his depiction of the Egyptian family and the broader narrative of 'The Battle of the Pyramids'.