Artwork

Débarquement de l'armée française à Old-Port (Crimée), 14 septembre 1854.

Débarquement de l'armée française à Old-Port (Crimée), 14 septembre 1854. is an oil painting by the Realist artist Félix-Joseph Barrias. It dates from 1859 and is held in the collection of the Palace of Versailles.

About this work

Overview

Débarquement de l'armée française à Old-Port (Crimée), 14 septembre 1854 is an 1859 oil painting by French artist Félix-Joseph Barrias, capturing a pivotal moment in the Crimean War. The work is part of the Palace of Versailles collection.

Subject & Meaning

The painting depicts the arrival of French troops at Old Port, Crimea, on September 14, 1854. The scene conveys a sense of energetic preparation, with soldiers, horses, and military equipment set against the backdrop of a bustling naval presence.

Technique & Style

Executed in oil paint, the work aligns with the realism movement, characterized by its detailed, lifelike portrayal of the event. The composition balances dynamic foreground activity with a detailed, expansive background.

History & Provenance

Created five years after the depicted event, the painting is now housed in the Palace of Versailles. Barrias, known for training notable artists like Edgar Degas, brought his experience in historical scenes to this commemorative work.

Context

The painting reflects France's involvement in the Crimean War and the artistic tendency of the time to document historical military engagements through realism.

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Artist & collection

Artist

Félix-Joseph Barrias

Félix-Joseph Barrias (13 September 1822 – 24 January 1907) was a French painter. He was well known in his day for his paintings of religious, historical or mythical subjects, but has now been largely forgotten. Artists…