Artwork

Battle of the Horatii and the Curiatii

Battle of the Horatii and the Curiatii, by Flemish 16th Century, ink, 1550
Battle of the Horatii and the Curiatii, by Flemish 16th Century, ink, 1550

Battle of the Horatii and the Curiatii is an ink print by the Renaissance artist Flemish 16th Century. It dates from 1550 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

The print 'Battle of the Horatii and the Curiatii' is a black-and-white engraving on laid paper, depicting a chaotic and crowded scene of combat.

Subject & Meaning

The artwork shows a fierce battle with multiple figures clashing, including three prominent warriors in the foreground wielding swords and shields, and additional soldiers fighting on a bridge in the background.

Technique & Style

The engraving is characterized by densely packed action and sharp, busy lines, evoking the energy of a dynamic sketch. The artist employs techniques such as cross-hatching to create dark areas through layered lines.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Flemish 16th Century

Artist

Flemish 16th Century

Flemish artists of the 1500s cast bronze reliefs and small sculptures lively with myth and scripture.

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