Artwork

Lion Devouring a Horse

Lion Devouring a Horse, by Théodore Géricault, ink, 1823
Lion Devouring a Horse, by Théodore Géricault, ink, 1823

Lion Devouring a Horse is an ink print by the Romanticist artist Théodore Géricault. It dates from 1823 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

Inscription
Inscribed:lower left in image: Géricault del; lower center in image: L...et Villain; lower right in image: chez Gihaut, bvd des Italiens No3; by later hand, upper right in graphite: 2e etat; by later hand, lower left in graphite: RPr 4/72; by later hand, center verso in graphite: 971 17 …

About this work

Overview

Lion Devouring a Horse is a lithograph on wove paper created by Théodore Géricault in 1823. It is a print that showcases the artist's exploration of dramatic animal confrontations.

Subject & Meaning

The lithograph depicts a lion attacking a dead horse, capturing a moment of raw conflict in nature. The scene is characterized by intense emotional and visual contrasts, reflecting Géricault's fascination with dynamic and powerful natural scenes.

Technique & Style

Géricault employed quick, rough lines to convey the struggle between the two animals, eschewing smooth shapes for a more expressive effect. The background is reduced to a dark, shadowy blur, focusing the viewer's attention on the lion and horse.

History & Provenance

Created in 1823, Lion Devouring a Horse is a product of Géricault's work as a pioneer of the Romantic movement, a period marked by intense emotional expression and vivid visual representation.

Horse Devoured by a Lion
Horse Devoured by a Lion, Théodore Géricault

Artist & collection

Portrait of Théodore Géricault

Artist

Théodore Géricault

Jean-Louis André Théodore Géricault (French:; 26 September 1791 – 26 January 1824) was a French painter and lithographer.

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

Reviews

Frequently asked questions

Who painted Lion Devouring a Horse?

Lion Devouring a Horse was painted by Théodore Géricault in 1823.

Where can I see Lion Devouring a Horse?

Lion Devouring a Horse is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is Lion Devouring a Horse?

Lion Devouring a Horse is associated with Romanticism.

Can I buy a print of Lion Devouring a Horse?

Museum-quality prints of Lion Devouring a Horse are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.