Artwork

The Marseillaise (The Departure of the Volunteers of 1792), by François Rude, 1833–36, Arc de Triomphe de l’Etoile, Paris

The Marseillaise (The Departure of the Volunteers of 1792), by François Rude, 1833–36, Arc de Triomphe de l’Etoile, Paris is a photographic photography by the Impressionist artist Gustave Le Gray. It dates from 1852 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.

About this work

The sculpture is part of a larger work called "The Marseillaise" (The Departure of the Volunteers of 1792), created by François Rude in 1833-36.

This photograph by Gustave Le Gray shows a sculpture on the Arc de Triomphe in Paris. The sculpture depicts a winged female figure with her arms outstretched, surrounded by several men in various poses. Some are dressed in ancient Greek or Roman attire, while others wear more modern clothing.

The sculpture is set against a brick wall, with a decorative border above it. The photograph is in black and white, with a sepia tone that gives it a sense of age and nostalgia.

The sculpture is part of a larger work called "The Marseillaise" (The Departure of the Volunteers of 1792), created by François Rude in 1833-36. If you're interested in learning more about Impressionism, you might want to explore the works of other artists associated with this movement.

Overview

This 1852 photograph by Gustave Le Gray captures François Rude's sculptural group, The Marseillaise, on the Arc de Triomphe in Paris. The image is a black and white salted paper print, conveying a sense of age.

Subject & Meaning

The sculpture depicts a winged female figure guiding a group of men, some in ancient attire, others in modern clothing, symbolizing the spirit of the French Revolution.

Technique & Style

The photograph features a sepia tone, achieved through the salted paper printing process, giving it a nostalgic quality. The image is set against a brick wall with a decorative border, emphasizing the sculpture's presence.

History & Provenance

The Marseillaise was created by François Rude between 1833 and 1836 for the Arc de Triomphe. Le Gray's photograph was taken in 1852, capturing the sculpture 16 years after its completion.