The artwork, “Deputies swearing oaths,” is a notable piece created by artist Jacques-Louis David in 1791. Executed with chalk, pen, and ink, it represents a historic scene reflective of the Neoclassicism movement. The dimensions of this significant piece are 490 x 600 cm, classifying it within the genre of history painting. Currently, this artwork can be viewed at the Château de Versailles in Versailles, France.
In the artwork, we can observe a series of sketches that vividly illustrate various groups of deputies in the act of swearing oaths. The different vignettes capture moments filled with emotion and dramatic gesturing, indicative of the gravity and passion of the era’s political events. Each group of figures displays a sense of urgency and solidarity, with some individuals prominently raising their hands or engaging closely with others to emphasize their commitment to the oath being taken. The use of light and shadow in the drawings, along with the fluid lines and expressiveness of the postures, contribute to a dynamic composition that conveys intensity and a momentous atmosphere.
These sketches convey not only the artistic skill of Jacques-Louis David in rendering human figures and emotive scenes but also serve as a visual documentation of the revolutionary fervor that characterized France at the close of the 18th century. Each tableau within the artwork serves as a poignant reminder of the weight of the deputies’ oaths as they pledged their allegiance to revolutionary ideals and the nascent French Republic.