Artwork preview

Don Quixote about to Strike the Helmet

Jean-Honoré Fragonard

National Gallery of Art

The image shows a person in a dynamic pose, swinging a sword. The individual is standing with legs apart, one arm raised above their head holding the sword, and the other resting on their hip. The facial features are sketched with strong lines, and the hair appears pulled back. The person is wearing historical or costume-like clothing, including a loose top, possibly a vest, and trousers tucked into boots. Nearby objects include a helmet on a stand or stool, and a round shield leaning against furniture. The background features arched structures, possibly representing the interior of a room with a cluttered appearance.

Artwork Details

Date
1780s
Medium
brush with brown and gray washes over charcoal on laid paper, laid down
Dimensions
3449 × 5023 px
Public Domain
Yes
Museum Record
View original