Battle of Castillon 1839

Charles-Philippe Lariviere’s "Battle of Castillon" is an oil painting capturing a historical clash. Notice how Lariviere used layers of paint to build up the scene, creating texture and depth. The thickness of the pigment varies, with some areas smoothly blended and others roughly applied, especially in the chaotic clash of figures and horses. This not only adds visual interest, but also captures the energy of combat. The detailed rendering of armor, weapons, and textiles speaks to the artist's skill and the cultural significance of these objects. Consider the labor involved in producing the actual arms and armors, and how Lariviere translates this craftsmanship onto the canvas. The materiality of paint here echoes the materiality of war. It serves as a reminder that the making of an image is not so different from the making of a sword. Both require technical expertise, physical effort, and social investment. By paying attention to material and process, we can appreciate how even a traditional painting can reveal wider social and historical contexts.