Artwork

Soldier's Family Encamped

Soldier's Family Encamped, by Horace Vernet, ink, 1818
Soldier's Family Encamped, by Horace Vernet, ink, 1818

Soldier's Family Encamped is an ink print by the Romanticist artist Horace Vernet. It dates from 1818 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Soldier's Family Encamped is a lithograph on wove paper created by French artist Horace Vernet around 1818. The work combines Vernet's interests in military and domestic themes.

Subject & Meaning

The lithograph depicts a serene scene of a soldier, his wife, and child encamped in a wooded area. The family's quiet, contemplative poses suggest a moment of intimate reflection amidst the soldier's life.

Technique & Style

Rendered in muted browns and grays, the piece utilizes lithography to achieve a textured, depthful quality, engaging the viewer. The subdued color palette reinforces the calm atmosphere.

History & Provenance

Created circa 1818 by Horace Vernet, known for Orientalist, portrait, and battle scene works. Specific provenance details are not provided.

Context

Part of Vernet's broader exploration of military life and domesticity, reflecting early 19th-century interests in the personal aspects of soldiering.

Legacy

As a lithograph by Vernet, it contributes to the artist's body of work bridging military and family themes, though its broader impact or notable exhibitions are not detailed here.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Horace Vernet

Artist

Horace Vernet

Émile Jean-Horace Vernet (French pronunciation: ; 30 June 1789 – 17 January 1863), better known as Horace Vernet, was a French painter of battles, portraits, and Orientalist subjects.

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