Oath of the Horatii

The "Oath of the Horatii" is a famous painting by Jacques-Louis David, created in 1784. It depicts a dramatic moment where three brothers, the Horatii, pledge to fight for their city, Rome, against their rival family, the Curatii. The scene symbolizes duty, sacrifice, and patriotism. The composition emphasizes strong lines and emotional expressions, highlighting the tension between personal loyalty and civic duty. This work is a key example of Neoclassicism, which sought to evoke the ideals of ancient Rome and Greece, promoting values like honor and courage in the face of conflict.