Artwork

Lara Wounded

Lara Wounded, by Théodore Géricault, 1822
Lara Wounded, by Théodore Géricault, 1822

Lara Wounded is a print by the Romanticist artist Théodore Géricault. It dates from 1822 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

About this work

Overview

Created in 1822 by French artist Théodore Géricault, *Lara Wounded* is a print that resides in the Cleveland Museum of Art. Executed during the brief but impactful span of Géricault’s career, the work reflects his involvement with early Romanticism and his early death at thirty‑two.

Subject & Meaning

The image captures a mounted knight cradling a fallen woman on his shoulder. The woman's limp posture and the title suggest she has been injured, evoking a moment of rescue or tragedy drawn from a narrative source, likely a literary or chivalric tale.

Technique & Style

Rendered with loose, sketch‑like lines, the print emphasizes immediacy and emotional intensity. Géricault’s handling of the armor, shield and sword is detailed, while the background town and distant soldiers are suggested with faint strokes, keeping focus on the central figures.

History & Provenance

After its creation, the work entered the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art, where it remains on display. Its acquisition reflects the museum’s interest in early 19th‑century French Romantic prints.

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: Cleveland Museum of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.