Who painted Bataille des frontières: groupe des soldats britanniques?

Bataille des frontières: groupe des soldats britanniques was painted by Auguste Louis Lepère in 1914.

Where can I see Bataille des frontières: groupe des soldats britanniques?

Bataille des frontières: groupe des soldats britanniques is held by Cleveland Museum of Art.

Artwork

Bataille des frontières: groupe des soldats britanniques

Auguste Louis Lepère , 1914

Bataille des frontières: groupe des soldats britanniques is a drawing by Auguste Louis Lepère. It dates from 1914 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

Accession no.: 1974.163
Credit line: Delia E. Holden Fund

About this work

Overview

Bataille des frontières: groupe des soldats britanniques is a 1914 drawing by Auguste Louis Lepère, a French artist instrumental in the European revival of wood engraving. The piece is housed in The Cleveland Museum of Art's collection.

Subject & Meaning

The drawing depicts a chaotic battle scene featuring British soldiers in various attire, blending antiquated armor with modern uniforms, suggesting a juxtaposition of historical periods. Figures engage in combat, with some playing drums or bearing flags, while a potential commander stands elevated in the blurred background.

Technique & Style

Executed in a rapid, on-site manner, the sketch's rough, expressive quality reflects its possibly spontaneous creation. The contrast between detailed foreground figures and a vague, subdued background adds depth.

History & Provenance

Created in 1914, the work's context may imply a response to the early stages of World War I, though this is not explicitly stated. It has been part of The Cleveland Museum of Art's collection.

Context

While the exact inspiration is unclear, the piece's 1914 dating suggests it might relate to the outbreak of World War I, capturing the confusion and anachronistic feel of traditional warfare meets modern conflict.

Legacy

As part of Lepère's broader contributions to wood engraving's revival in Europe, this drawing, though not exclusively wood-engraved, demonstrates his skill in capturing dynamic scenes, potentially influencing subsequent depictions of wartime chaos.

Marche d'un groupe de prisonniers allemands, Auguste Louis Lepère

Artist & collection

Artist

Auguste Louis Lepère

Louis-Auguste Lepère (30 November 1849 – 20 November 1918) was a French painter and etcher. Lepère is also considered a leader in the creative revival of wood engraving in Europe.