The Raft of Medusa

"The Raft of Medusa" is a famous painting by French artist Théodore Géricault, created in 1818-1819. It depicts the aftermath of a disastrous shipwreck of the French frigate Méduse, which ran aground in 1816. The painting shows survivors adrift on a makeshift raft, struggling for hope and rescue. It powerfully conveys themes of desperation, human suffering, and survival against overwhelming odds. The artwork is notable for its dramatic composition and emotional intensity, and it became a significant statement against political incompetence in France, reflecting the social issues of the time.