By Jacques Louis David
Art Movement: Neoclassicism
Jacques Louis David painted the Oath of the Horatii in 1784.
The painting still resides in the Louvre in Paris France. It is Neoclassical in
nature as it depicts a scene from ancient Rome. This painting came during a
time when people were looking to the past for a sense of honor and greatness.
The Roman empire was the standard for greatness so naturally much of the art in
the time depicted such themes. The painting portrays the story of when a war
between Rome and Alba Longa was to be settled between six men. Three brothers
from the Curiatii family of Alba Longa and three brothers from the Horatii
family of Rome. The Horatii brothers are shown saluting their father as he
extends swords to each of them. You can see the women of the house huddled
together in what can only be apprehension and fear that they may never see
their sons or brothers again. The pillars in the back ground lend strength to
the painting and give a feel of justice and order. Over all the painting seems
to emanate a sense of loyalty and honor. The Horatii brothers never saw their
actions as a sacrifice but a duty.
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