Artwork

Battle between Man and Centaur

Battle between Man and Centaur, by John Flaxman, graphite, 1790
Battle between Man and Centaur, by John Flaxman, graphite, 1790

Battle between Man and Centaur is a graphite drawing by the Romanticist artist John Flaxman. It dates from 1790 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Battle between Man and Centaur is a graphite drawing created by John Flaxman in 1790. It exemplifies his work as a draughtsman and reflects his involvement with Neoclassicism.

Subject & Meaning

The drawing depicts a confrontation between a human figure and a mythological centaur, a subject rooted in classical themes. The scene is characterized by dynamic movement and tension, capturing the intensity of the encounter.

Technique & Style

Executed in graphite, the drawing features loose, expressive lines that convey a sense of urgency and spontaneity. The sketchy style and emphasis on movement suggest a rapid execution, prioritizing the capture of the scene's energy over detailed rendering.

Context

Flaxman's work was influenced by his early training in Wedgwood's pottery workshop and his association with Neoclassicism, a movement that emphasized classical forms and themes. The drawing's style also relates to emerging artistic trends, including Romanticism, which valued expressive and emotive qualities.

Artist & collection

Portrait of John Flaxman

Artist

John Flaxman

John Flaxman (6 July 1755 – 7 December 1826) was an English sculptor and draughtsman who was a leading figure in British and European Neoclassicism.

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