Delacroix is one of the most popular French painters of the Romantic era and a leader of the late 18th century neoclassical movement His paintings are filled with emotion and vivid color and often depict history or literature. His most popular works include Liberty Leading the People, The Death of Sardanapalus, and the Greek folk tale of Medea.
Example 1: Liberty Leading the People is one of the most iconic images from the French Revolution, depicting a woman leading people forward into liberation. The woman was modeled after Marianne, a symbol of the French Republic and a symbol of the emotional intensity of revolutionary ideals. With bright colors, Delacroix used the painting to express his own revolutionary sentiments and to critique the current state of French politics.
Example 2: The Death of Sardanapalus is a dramatic retelling of an ancient mythology. In the painting, Delacroix illustrates the despair of the death of King Sardanapalus and his surrender to his fate. With vivid colors and dramatic poses, Delacroix conveys the majesty and tragedy of death.
Example 3: Delacroix's painting of the Greek folk tale Medea depicts the powerful witch as she attempts to escape her pursuers. Through her powerful expression and the dynamic lighting, Delacroix conveys the intensity of the situation as well as Medea's determination.
Example 4: The Massacre at Chios is a painting depicting the Greek Genocide of the Ottoman Turks in 1822. It is a memorial to the Greeks who were massacred during the conflict and an indictment of the violence that occurred. With its striking colors and dramatic poses, Delacroix conveys the horror of the event.
Example 5: The Entry of the Crusaders into Constantinople is an epic painting that depicts the grandeur and power of the crusaders as they march into the city. Delacroix captures the chaotic energy of the event through bright colors and the intensity of his figures. The painting is a masterful example of Delacroix's use of color and composition.