The Wild Horse
Artist
Eugène Delacroix
(French, 1798 - 1863)
Date1828
MediumLithograph on paper
DimensionsOverall: 11 1/2 x 9 7/16in. (29.2 x 24cm)
Image: 9 9/16 x 9 7/16in. (24.3 x 24cm)
Image: 9 9/16 x 9 7/16in. (24.3 x 24cm)
ClassificationsPRINTS
Credit LineGift of Edward W. Root
Terms
Object number53.103
Description On View
Not on viewCollections
CopyrightNo known copyright restrictions.
Label TextEugéne Delacroix was the most prominent figure in French Romantic painting in the early years of the 19th century. He signed and dated this lithograph in 1828 around the time he exhibited at the French Salon his huge painting, Death of Sardanapalus (Louvre, Paris), an exotic scene of sensuality and debauchery that was widely criticized. The fiery content of Delacroix's painting is reflected in this print. When considered in the light of the writings of the 18th century French philosopher Jean-Jacques Rousseau, Delacroix's spirited steed can be seen as a pictorial metaphor of the Romantics' desire to "return to nature," and to live the life of a "noble savage" free from the corrupting influence of progress and civilization. Root's impression of Delacroix's lithograph is the second state, published in Paris in the journal, L'Artiste on March 1, 1865.
PDS
February 2005
