The Oath of the Horatii
Jacques-Louis David · 1784
Why it's great
Three brothers in ancient Rome stretch out their arms to swear to fight for their city, while the women of the family weep. David's sharp lines, stage-like setting and strong sense of duty were a stunning change from the frilly paintings that came before. It helped create Neoclassicism and was admired in the years before the French Revolution as a picture of courage and sacrifice.
🏛️ Part of history
Founding of Rome & the Early Republic (753–264 BC) — Three brothers swear to fight for Rome, while the women weep. David used this legend of early Roman duty to say that citizens must put their country first.
Where to see it
📍 Louvre MuseumParis, France
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Three places to look for a print of this painting, from budget to museum-grade:
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Jacques-Louis David was born in Paris and became the greatest painter of the Neoclassical style, inspired by ancient Greece and Rome. He supported the French Revolution and later became Napoleon's official painter. After Napoleon fell, he was forced into exile and spent his last years in Brussels, Belgium. He taught many famous students and shaped French art for generations.
