Sketch for The Revolt of Cairo 1810

Anne-Louis Girodet made this sketch for The Revolt of Cairo with oil paint, a material developed centuries earlier that allowed artists to build up layers of color and texture in their work. Looking at the artwork, you can see how the fluid qualities of oil paint enable the artist to capture a sense of motion and chaos. Girodet applied the paint in broad, gestural strokes, and the energetic brushwork helps to convey the violence and turmoil of the scene. The materiality of oil allows the artist to blend colors seamlessly, creating a sense of depth and atmosphere. The artist has captured the intensity of the conflict, and the viewer is drawn into the heart of the battle. Despite being 'just' a sketch, Girodet's use of oil is very sophisticated. And it shows how even traditional materials can be used to innovate and expand the boundaries of fine art.