Who painted Lion Devouring a Horse?

Lion Devouring a Horse was painted by Théodore Géricault in 1823.

Where can I see Lion Devouring a Horse?

Lion Devouring a Horse is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is Lion Devouring a Horse?

Lion Devouring a Horse is associated with Romanticism.

Artwork

Lion Devouring a Horse

Théodore Géricault , 1823

Lion Devouring a Horse is an ink print by the Romanticist artist Théodore Géricault. It dates from 1823 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Lion Devouring a Horse is a lithograph on wove paper created by Théodore Géricault in 1823. It is a print that showcases the artist's exploration of dramatic animal confrontations.

Subject & Meaning

The lithograph depicts a lion attacking a dead horse, capturing a moment of raw conflict in nature. The scene is characterized by intense emotional and visual contrasts, reflecting Géricault's fascination with dynamic and powerful natural scenes.

Technique & Style

Géricault employed quick, rough lines to convey the struggle between the two animals, eschewing smooth shapes for a more expressive effect. The background is reduced to a dark, shadowy blur, focusing the viewer's attention on the lion and horse.

History & Provenance

Created in 1823, Lion Devouring a Horse is a product of Géricault's work as a pioneer of the Romantic movement, a period marked by intense emotional expression and vivid visual representation.