An Académie
- Artist: French
- Date: early 19th century
- Medium: oil on canvas
- Museum: The National Gallery
- Collection record: The National Gallery website
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About this artwork
This is the An Académie by French artists. Painted in the early nineteenth century, this oil on canvas work shows a life study of a male model posed as if he were holding action poses. You'll notice that his foot is slightly raised, which was a common feature in these studies to reveal the muscles of the lower leg. The props he's holding - a shield, a spear and a helmet - are typical of those used in these types of life studies. Unfortunately, it's been falsely signed as being by David in 1805, but it may actually be the work of one of his students. Either way, it gives us a fascinating glimpse into the classical training of male artists during this period.
See it in person
An Académie hangs in The National Gallery on Trafalgar Square, London — free to enter. Point your phone at any artwork there and audioguide.london plays a free audio guide in six languages — no app download needed.
