Théodore Géricault

Géricault's style was Romantic Realism, a potent blend of the drama and emotion of Romanticism with a grounding in realistic observation.

Key characteristics:

• Dramatic composition: Often used dynamic arrangements of figures, often with a sense of chaotic movement.
• Intense Emotion: Showed a high range of emotions, from despair to heroic determination.
• Emphasis on the Human Body: Meticulously rendered musculature and anatomy, particularly of male figures.
• Chiaroscuro: Employed strong contrasts between light and shadow to create dramatic effect and heighten emotion.
• Social commentary: Frequently depicted contemporary events and social issues.

Themes:

• Human suffering and resilience
• The power and terror of nature
• Social injustice and marginalization
• The psychological impact of trauma

How to remember his style: Think of Géricault as someone who Gets Real, injecting raw and emotional Realism into the flamboyant style of Romanticism.