The artwork “Romulus’ Victory over Acron” was created by the artist Jean Auguste Dominique Ingres in the year 1812. The piece is executed in tempera on canvas and is a representative work of the Neoclassicism movement. The dimensions of the artwork are notably expansive, measuring 530 cm by 276 cm. It belongs to the genre of mythological painting, a popular theme among Neoclassical artists, who often sought to emulate the values and aesthetics of classical antiquity.
“Romulus’ Victory over Acron” depicts a dramatic scene filled with tension and action. The central figure, presumably Romulus, the legendary founder and first king of Rome, is portrayed in a grand manner typical of Neoclassical style. He stands in a commanding pose with his left arm raised, signifying victory. Dressed in classical Roman garments with a crimson cloak swirling about his form, Romulus exudes the heroic idealism so prized during the Neoclassical era.
The composition teems with figures, including soldiers clad in armor and various individuals in the throes of battle. A fallen foe lies beneath Romulus’ feet, while to the right, a rearing horse adds to the chaotic energy of the scene. Detailed armor and weaponry are on display, emphasizing the historical and military aspects of the story. The background suggests a distant battleground, further contributing to the narrative of conquest and triumph. Through his use of vivid colors, dynamic figures, and strong linear qualities, Ingres effectively communicates the dramatic moment and historical gravity associated with the legendary event.