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The Turmoil of Conflict (Joan of Arc series: IV) by Boutet de Monvel, Louis Maurice

Boutet de Monvel, Louis Maurice · c. late 1909-early 1913

Louis Maurice Boutet de Monvel's *The Turmoil of Conflict (Joan of Arc series: IV)*, painted around 1909, is an oil and gold leaf on canvas masterpiece held in a private collection. It's one piece in his larger series dedicated to the life of Joan of Arc.

Notice the stunning use of gold leaf, particularly on the armor of the figures. This ancient technique was deliberately chosen to add a luminous, shimmering quality, enhancing the visual richness and often evoking a sense of the sacred or historical grandeur.

Boutet de Monvel's work captures a moment of intense struggle or emotional distress, reflecting the challenges Joan of Arc faced. The radiant gold elevates her story, connecting historical painting methods with the dramatic narrative.

What other historical figures do you think deserve such luminous treatment in art?

Details

This ancient technique added richness and sacred grandeur.
This ancient technique added richness and sacred grandeur.
The elaborate decoration on the horse's mane and tack suggests ceremonial or important status.
The elaborate decoration on the horse's mane and tack suggests ceremonial or important status.
The prominent red sash draws the eye and suggests a figure of importance or a specific faction.
The prominent red sash draws the eye and suggests a figure of importance or a specific faction.
Transcript

This is part of a series on Joan of Arc. The artist used oil paint and gold leaf on canvas. See how light catches the gold leaf on his armor. This ancient technique added richness and sacred grandeur. The shimmer evokes the drama of her story. It reflects the turmoil of conflict she faced.