Turkish horseback ambush c. 1810 - 1813

"Turkish Horseback Ambush" by Carl Rottmann (1797-1850) depicts a dramatic scene of a surprise attack by Turkish cavalrymen on a group of European soldiers. The painting, dated c. 1810-1813, captures the chaos and violence of the conflict. Rottmann, a German Romantic painter, is known for his detailed and evocative depictions of historical events. This watercolor, now housed at the Städel Museum, exemplifies his mastery of capturing the dynamism and urgency of warfare. The composition, with its emphasis on the charging horsemen and the tense expressions of the soldiers, creates a sense of immediacy, drawing the viewer into the heart of the battle. The lush forest setting adds a sense of depth and atmosphere to the scene.