Open full image Pin
Soldier and Boys, by Nicolas Toussaint Charlet, oil, 1840

Dominant colour

Overview

Soldier and Boys is a 1840 oil by Nicolas Toussaint Charlet, held at Hermitage Museum.

Who painted this?
Nicolas Toussaint Charlet
When & what style?
1840
Where can I see it?
Hermitage Museum

About this work

This painting shows a soldier in uniform, sitting on a bench with his right leg crossed over his left. He's wearing a red scarf, a white hat, and a dark jacket with gold accents. Two boys stand beside him, looking at something in his hand. The soldier's face is tilted back, and his mouth is open as if he's laughing or shouting. The soldier's uniform and the boys' clothing suggest a historical setting. The scene appears to be set in a casual, everyday environment, rather than a formal or official one. The use of chiaroscuro in this painting creates a sense of depth and volume, drawing the viewer's eye to the central figures. For more on this technique, look up chiaroscuro.

About the artist

Portrait of Nicolas Toussaint Charlet
Artist

Nicolas Toussaint Charlet

Nicolas-Toussaint Charlet was a French painter and printmaker, more especially of military subjects.

See the richer artist page

More by Nicolas Toussaint Charlet

Artifact World Gallery — 100,000 artworks Get the app