1807, Friedland
The Met
Artist: Ernest Meissonier(French, Lyons 1815–1891 Paris)
Date: ca. 1861–75
Department: European Paintings
Classification: Paintings
Medium: Oil on canvas
Dimensions: 53 1/2 x 95 1/2 in. (135.9 x 242.6 cm)
Credit Line: Gift of Henry Hilton, 1887
Visual Descriptions
AI GeneratedVisual Summary
Brief Description
A large painting depicts a cavalry charge across a grassy field under a cloudy sky
Detailed Description
A wide, horizontal oil painting depicts a large-scale military scene with numerous soldiers on horseback across a grassy field under a cloudy sky. The upper third of the canvas features a light blue sky filled with dynamic white and gray clouds. The lower two-thirds are dominated by a field of tall, green and yellow-brown grass, rendered with visible brushstrokes. On the left side of the painting, a group of officers on horseback are gathered. Several wear dark uniforms with tall hats, some plumed. One prominent officer on a white horse, near the center-left, raises his right hand. Behind this group, other mounted soldiers and what appears to be an artillery piece are partially visible. The right side of the painting is filled with a dense, surging mass of cavalry in motion, moving towards the right. Horses are depicted in various dynamic poses, some galloping with legs extended, others rearing. Their riders wear military uniforms, many with tall shakos or helmets. Numerous long, thin swords and lances are raised vertically into the air, reflecting light. A particularly prominent rider on a white horse in the lower right foreground leans forward, his horse in mid-stride. The arrangement of figures shows a group on the left that is relatively still, while the cavalry on the right appears to be in rapid forward motion.
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