Artwork
A Battle between Oriental Cavalry and Soldiers
A Battle between Oriental Cavalry and Soldiers is an ink drawing by the Baroque artist Johann Wilhelm Baur. It dates from 1636 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
Overview
A Battle between Oriental Cavalry and Soldiers is a drawing created by Johann Wilhelm Baur in 1636. It is executed in pen and brown ink with wash on laid paper.
Subject & Meaning
The drawing depicts a chaotic military clash between two groups of mounted soldiers, distinguished by their attire and riding styles. The scene is characteristic of the history painting genre, reflecting Baur's interest in narrative subjects.
Technique & Style
Baur employed loose, rapid lines and ink wash to convey a sense of dynamic movement. The blurring of horses' legs and the rough, energetic rendering of soldiers' faces contribute to the impression of an unfolding scene.
History & Provenance
Johann Wilhelm Baur, a German artist active in the early 17th century, produced this work during his productive period. He was known for his engravings, etchings, and miniature paintings, and later illustrated Ovid's Metamorphoses.
Artist & collection
Artist
Johann Wilhelm Baur, Joan Guiliam Bouwer, or Bauer (Strasbourg, 31 May 1607 - Vienna, 1 January 1640) was a German engraver, etcher and miniature painter. He is famous for a series of illustrations of Ovid's Metamorphoses.
