Who painted Bataille de Tannenberg?

Bataille de Tannenberg was painted by Auguste Lepère in 1914.

Where can I see Bataille de Tannenberg?

Bataille de Tannenberg is held by Cleveland Museum of Art.

Artwork

Bataille de Tannenberg

Auguste Lepère , 1914

Bataille de Tannenberg is a drawing by Auguste Lepère. It dates from 1914 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art. Created in 1914 by French artist Auguste Louis Lepère, this drawing depicts the Battle of Tannenberg, a major World War I engagement.

About this work

The title at the bottom reads *"Bataille de Tannenberg"*—that’s French for the Battle of Tannenberg, a real 1914 battle.

This sketch shows a chaotic battle scene. Soldiers in old-fashioned uniforms are fighting, some standing, some kneeling. In the background, musicians play instruments while smoke and buildings burn. The lines are rough and the shading is uneven, giving it a sketchy, urgent feel.

The title at the bottom reads *"Bataille de Tannenberg"*—that’s French for the Battle of Tannenberg, a real 1914 battle. The artist drew it fast, like a quick note of what he saw.

If you like this style, check out chiaroscuro next—it’s a technique using strong light and dark contrasts.

Overview

Created in 1914 by French artist Auguste Louis Lepère, this drawing depicts the Battle of Tannenberg, a major World War I engagement. Executed as a rapid sketch, the work is part of the Cleveland Museum of Art’s collection and exemplifies Lepère’s interest in documenting contemporary events through graphic means.

Subject & Meaning

The composition presents a tumultuous battlefield where soldiers in period uniforms clash amid smoke, burning structures, and distant musicians. The chaotic arrangement conveys the confusion and intensity of the 1914 conflict, offering a visual note of the human experience of war rather than a formal historical record.

Technique & Style

Lepère employed loose, uneven lines and irregular shading, giving the drawing a sketch‑like urgency. The rough draftsmanship, characteristic of his wood‑engraving background, emphasizes immediacy over polish, allowing the viewer to sense the fleeting impression the artist captured in the moment.

History & Provenance

After its creation, the drawing entered the holdings of the Cleveland Museum of Art, where it remains on view. Its acquisition reflects the museum’s broader effort to represent early twentieth‑century European graphic art and the visual responses to wartime events.

Artist & collection

Artist

Auguste Lepère

Louis-Auguste Lepère (30 November 1849 – 20 November 1918) was a French painter and etcher. Lepère is also considered a leader in the creative revival of wood engraving in Europe.