Artwork

Trumpeter of the Hussars

Trumpeter of the Hussars, by Théodore Géricault, oil, 1817
Trumpeter of the Hussars, by Théodore Géricault, oil, 1817

Trumpeter of the Hussars is an oil painting by the French Romanticist artist Théodore Géricault. It dates from 1817 and is held in the collection of the Clark Art Institute.

About this work

Overview

Trumpeter of the Hussars is an oil painting created by Théodore Géricault in 1817. It exemplifies the artist's innovative style and his contribution to the French Romantic movement.

Subject & Meaning

The painting depicts a hussar soldier on a white horse, set against a cloudy sky. The soldier's calm demeanor and the serene atmosphere evoke a sense of tranquility, while his attire and pose convey a sense of pride and authority.

Technique & Style

Géricault's use of chiaroscuro creates a sense of depth, drawing attention to the soldier and his horse. The contrast between light and dark areas adds dimensionality to the scene, characteristic of his dynamic and expressive approach to composition.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Théodore Géricault

Artist

Théodore Géricault

Jean-Louis André Théodore Géricault (French: ; 26 September 1791 – 26 January 1824) was a French painter and lithographer.

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