Artwork

Carabinier

Carabinier, by Auguste Raffet, ink, 1832
Carabinier, by Auguste Raffet, ink, 1832

Carabinier is an ink print by the Romanticist artist Auguste Raffet. It dates from 1832 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Carabinier is a lithograph on wove paper created by Auguste Raffet in 1832. It depicts a cavalry soldier on horseback, showcasing Raffet's skill in capturing military subjects.

Subject & Meaning

The print shows a carabinier, a type of heavily armored cavalry soldier, on a horse laden with gear, conveying a sense of strength and confidence. The image reflects the era's fascination with documenting military life.

Technique & Style

Executed in lithography, the work features sketchy lines that suggest a rapid study rather than a finished portrait. The contrast between the polished uniform and loose drawing style adds to the image's character.

History & Provenance

Raffet, trained under Nicolas Toussaint Charlet, was known for his retrospective depictions of the Empire period. This work is part of his oeuvre focused on military subjects.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Auguste Raffet

Artist

Auguste Raffet

Denis Auguste Marie Raffet (2 March 1804 – 16 February 1860) was a French illustrator and lithographer. He was a student of Nicolas Toussaint Charlet, and was a retrospective painter of the Empire.

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