Artwork

Turkish irregular cavalry charging Russian infantry

Turkish irregular cavalry charging Russian infantry, by Unknown, watercolor, 1878
Turkish irregular cavalry charging Russian infantry, by Unknown, watercolor, 1878

Turkish irregular cavalry charging Russian infantry is a watercolor work on paper by the Impressionist artist Unknown. It dates from 1878 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.

About this work

Overview

A watercolour painting depicts a chaotic battle scene between Turkish irregular cavalry and Russian infantry during the 1877–78 Russo-Turkish War.

Subject & Meaning

The scene likely references a specific skirmish reported in contemporary sources, capturing the momentum of cavalry charges against disciplined infantry formations.

Technique & Style

The artist employed quick, loose brushstrokes to convey movement, using bright colours to focus attention on the action, with an emphasis on capturing a real-life moment.

History & Provenance

The work is documented in the Searight Archive, although the artist remains unidentified.

Artist & collection

Artist

Unknown

entity whose identity is not known