Artwork

Greek Cavalry Men Resting in Forest

Greek Cavalry Men Resting in Forest, by Eugène Delacroix, unspecified, 1858
Greek Cavalry Men Resting in Forest, by Eugène Delacroix, unspecified, 1858

Greek Cavalry Men Resting in Forest is an unspecified painting by the French Romanticist artist Eugène Delacroix. It dates from 1858 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

About this work

Subject & Meaning

Created by Eugène Delacroix in 1858, the work is executed on a textile (canvas) support and measures 50.

The painting depicts Greek cavalry men resting in a forest, with trees forming the background. Created by Eugène Delacroix in 1858, the work is executed on a textile (canvas) support and measures 50.4 cm by 61.5 cm. It is part of the Cleveland Museum of Art collection. The composition places the figures amid a dense canopy, suggesting a pastoral atmosphere, and shows the riders in a quiet woodland setting, highlighting a moment of repose among foliage.

Technique & Style

Executed in 1858, this painting by Eugène Delacroix is created on a textile (canvas) support. The work measures 50.4 cm in height and 61.5 cm in width. Stylistically, the composition features a forest setting, specifically depicting trees as part of the landscape where the cavalry figures rest. The piece is classified as a painting and was produced in France.

History & Provenance

Greek Cavalry Men Resting in Forest was created by Eugène Delacroix in 1858 in France. The work is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art, where it is identified by the accession number 1916.1032. The sources do not provide information about the circumstances of the work's commission, the chain of ownership between its creation and its acquisition by the museum, or the specific date or method of that acquisition.

Overview

Eugène Delacroix, a prominent figure in the French Romantic movement, completed Greek Cavalry Men Resting in Forest in 1858. This painting captures a tranquil moment within a dense woodland, depicting a small group of cavalrymen taking a pause. The artwork is characterized by its evocative atmosphere and painterly execution, reflecting the artist's focus on emotion and dynamism. It is housed in the collection of The Cleveland Museum of Art.

Context

As a leading exponent of French Romanticism, Eugène Delacroix consistently championed color and movement over the strict linearity and academic precision favored by Neoclassicism. His artistic vision was significantly shaped by the dramatic compositions of Peter Paul Rubens and the rich palettes of Venetian Renaissance masters. Greek Cavalry Men Resting in Forest reflects these influences, showcasing his enduring commitment to capturing dynamic narratives and emotional depth through painterly means.

Greek Cavalry Men Resting in Forest
Greek Cavalry Men Resting in Forest, Eugène Delacroix

Artist & collection

Portrait of Eugène Delacroix

Artist

Eugène Delacroix

Ferdinand Victor Eugène Delacroix ( DEL-ə-krwah, -⁠KRWAH; French:; 26 April 1798 – 13 August 1863) was a French Romantic artist who was regarded as the leader of the French Romantic school.

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

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Frequently asked questions

Who painted Greek Cavalry Men Resting in Forest?

Greek Cavalry Men Resting in Forest was painted by Eugène Delacroix in 1858-01-01.

Where can I see Greek Cavalry Men Resting in Forest?

Greek Cavalry Men Resting in Forest is held by Cleveland Museum of Art.

What movement is Greek Cavalry Men Resting in Forest?

Greek Cavalry Men Resting in Forest is associated with French Romanticism.

Can I buy a print of Greek Cavalry Men Resting in Forest?

Museum-quality prints of Greek Cavalry Men Resting in Forest are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.