Artwork
Specimens of Polyautography: Cavalry Charge

Specimens of Polyautography: Cavalry Charge is a print by the Romanticist artist Robert Kerr Porter. It dates from 1803 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.
About this work
Overview
Specimens of Polyautography: Cavalry Charge is a 1803 print by Robert Kerr Porter, a British artist and diplomat, showcasing a chaotic military scene through early lithographic techniques.
Subject & Meaning
The print depicts a disordered cavalry charge set against a natural backdrop of trees and a cloudy sky. A fallen soldier in the foreground underscores the turmoil and consequence of battle.
Technique & Style
Created as part of Porter's experiments with polyautography (an early form of lithography), the work features muted colors, predominantly browns and grays, capturing dynamic movement in a Romanticism-influenced style.
History & Provenance
Porter, known for his panoramic works and roles as historical painter to Tsar Alexander I and British consul in Venezuela, created this piece during his lithographic series. It is now part of The Cleveland Museum of Art's collection.
Context
The work reflects the artistic and technical innovations of its time, aligning with the emotional and dynamic themes of the Romanticism movement, which emphasized intense experience and natural beauty.
Legacy
While specific legacy details of *Specimens of Polyautography: Cavalry Charge* are not highlighted, it contributes to the broader understanding of early lithography's development and Porter's multifaceted career.
Own this work as a print
Artist & collection
Artist
Sir Robert Ker Porter, KCH (1777 – 4 May 1842) was a British artist, writer and diplomat.











