The Tennis Court Oath
Jacques-Louis David · 1791
Why it's great
In June 1789, members of the French National Assembly, locked out of their meeting hall, gathered in an indoor tennis court and swore to write a new constitution. David's sketch shows people with their arms raised, as curtains billow in the wind. It's a moment that started the French Revolution. It's a drawing of an idea in action.
🏛️ Part of history
The French Revolution (1789–1799) — In June 1789 the deputies of the Third Estate swear not to leave until France has a constitution.
Where to see it
📍 Palace of VersaillesVersailles, France
Open in Maps ↗ About this museum →Hang it on your wall
Three places to look for a print of this painting, from budget to museum-grade:
These links open search results on each shop's own website; we don't sell anything or earn a commission, and print quality varies by seller. Ask a grown-up before you buy anything.
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.
