Artwork

Combat for the Colors

Combat for the Colors, by Édouard Detaille, unspecified, 1874
Combat for the Colors, by Édouard Detaille, unspecified, 1874

Combat for the Colors is an unspecified painting by the Impressionist artist Édouard Detaille. It dates from 1874 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

About this work

Overview

Combat for the Colors is a 1874 painting by Édouard Detaille, a French academic painter known for his detailed and realistic depictions of military life.

Subject & Meaning

The painting captures a chaotic moment in a battle, with two horsemen clashing swords amidst a backdrop of other mounted soldiers fighting. The scene conveys intense action and emotion, with the uniforms and colors of the combatants suggesting a specific historical context.

Technique & Style

The work is characterized by muted colors and loose brushstrokes, creating a sense of energy and movement. This style, while still grounded in realism, conveys the turmoil of the battle scene.

History & Provenance

Combat for the Colors is part of the collection at The Cleveland Museum of Art. As the 'semi-official artist of the French army,' Detaille's work was closely associated with the military, reflecting his specialization in military scenes.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Édouard Detaille

Artist

Édouard Detaille

Jean-Baptiste Édouard Detaille (French pronunciation: ; 5 October 1848 – 23 December 1912) was a French academic painter and military artist noted for his precision and realistic detail.

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: Cleveland Museum of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.