The Nocturnal Review Possibly 1836 - 1837

Auguste Raffet created "The Nocturnal Review" using graphite and possibly other black media on paper. The print plunges us into a vast, spectral assembly of soldiers under a dim moon. Raffet masterfully uses the tonal range of graphite to evoke a scene of ghostly grandeur. Notice how the composition relies on a stark contrast between the foreground's dense, dark masses and the ethereal lightness of the horizon. This contrast serves not only to create depth but also to evoke a sense of scale, emphasizing the immensity of the military force. The application of graphite varies from smudged, atmospheric strokes to precise, detailed lines, enriching the visual texture of the artwork. The power of "The Nocturnal Review" resides in its ability to destabilize the glorification of military might, presenting it instead as a somber, almost dreamlike vision. By focusing on the formal elements, Raffet encourages a re-evaluation of the values typically associated with martial imagery. This print remains a powerful statement, where the artist questions traditional interpretations of heroism and sacrifice through the subtle yet potent use of form.