Batalha do Avaí 1877

"Batalha do Avaí" was made by Pedro Américo with oil on canvas in the late 19th century. The sheer scale of this painting is really the first thing to appreciate. At six by eleven meters, it's immense! Think of the labor required to produce such a large work; from the weaving of the canvas itself to the grinding and mixing of pigments. The application of paint is almost sculptural in its intensity, with thick impasto adding depth and drama to the battle scene. Every square inch is covered with detail. The painting depicts a pivotal battle in the Paraguayan War. It's a glorification of military conflict, and that raises questions about the narratives it puts forth. The artist used industrial materials, produced by the hands of workers he may have considered beneath him. But it takes nothing away from his own labor. Recognizing this contribution acknowledges the true range of skills and processes necessary for the creation of art. From the battlefield to the artist's studio, this work truly speaks volumes about social context.