Artwork

Cavalry Skirmish

Cavalry Skirmish, by Thomas Rowlandson, ink, 1792
Cavalry Skirmish, by Thomas Rowlandson, ink, 1792

Cavalry Skirmish is an ink drawing by the Romanticist artist Thomas Rowlandson. It dates from 1792 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Cavalry Skirmish is a drawing created by Thomas Rowlandson in 1792, using a combination of pen and ink with watercolor on laid paper.

Subject & Meaning

The drawing depicts a chaotic scene of mounted soldiers in conflict, reflecting Rowlandson's interest in capturing dynamic and often satirical representations of contemporary life.

Technique & Style

Rowlandson's use of pen and multiple ink colors with watercolor showcases his skill in mixing media to achieve a range of tones and textures, characteristic of his robust and expressive style.

Context

As a caricaturist and illustrator of the Georgian Era, Rowlandson's work often engaged with the political and social issues of his time, frequently incorporating satire and humor.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Thomas Rowlandson

Artist

Thomas Rowlandson

Thomas Rowlandson (; 13 July 1757 – 21 April 1827) was an English artist and caricaturist of the Georgian Era, noted for his political satire and social observation.

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