Who painted Soldier and Boys?

Soldier and Boys was painted by Nicolas Toussaint Charlet in 1840.

Where can I see Soldier and Boys?

Soldier and Boys is held by Hermitage Museum.

Artwork

Soldier and Boys

Soldier and Boys is an oil painting by Nicolas Toussaint Charlet. It dates from 1840 and is held in the collection of the Hermitage Museum.

About this work

Overview

Nicolas Toussaint Charlet’s oil on canvas, Soldier and Boys, dates from 1840 and is part of the State Hermitage Museum’s collection. The work depicts a uniformed soldier seated on a bench, his right leg crossed over the left, while two young boys stand nearby, their attention fixed on an object held in his hand.

Subject & Meaning

The central figure wears a dark jacket trimmed with gold, a white hat and a red scarf, suggesting a military context. The informal posture and the presence of the boys convey a moment of everyday interaction, perhaps a casual lesson or a shared amusement, rather than a formal ceremony.

Technique & Style

Charlet employs strong chiaroscuro, contrasting illuminated forms against darker surroundings to model volume and guide the eye toward the trio. The handling of light accentuates the textures of fabric and flesh, while the relatively flat background keeps focus on the figures and their gestures.

History & Provenance

Created in the early nineteenth century, the painting entered the State Hermitage Museum’s holdings at an unspecified date, where it remains on display. Its provenance prior to acquisition is not extensively documented, but the work reflects Charlet’s interest in military subjects that characterized much of his oeuvre.

Artist & collection

Artist

Nicolas Toussaint Charlet

Nicolas-Toussaint Charlet was a French painter and printmaker, more especially of military subjects.

Museum

Hermitage Museum

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