Jacques-Louis David
French, 1748–1825

According to legend, Rome, at war with its neighbor Alba Longa, decided to settle their dispute over rule by pitting three brothers from each side against each other: the Roman Horatii versus the Alban Curiatii. The Horatii and Curiatii were cousins, married or betrothed to each other’s sisters. Only the youngest of the Horatii survived the battle, thus preserving Rome’s authority. Here, with somber mood and carefully arranged classical order, Jacques-Louis David has depicted the three Horatii vowing, in allegiance to their father, to fight to the death. To the right, their wives are shown in profound anguish. This particular scene emphasizes the sacrifice of the individual for the good of the state.

This is a signed replica of David’s life-size painting, commissioned by King Louis XVI and now in the Musée du Louvre. It was ordered by the Comte de Vandreuil, and in addition to its smaller size, has minor differences from the original.

Oil on canvas, 1786
Purchased with funds from the Libbey Endowment, Gift of Edward Drummond Libbey, 1950.308