The artwork “Study for ‘The Battle of Tetuan'” is an evocative sketch and study created by Salvador Dali in 1962. As a representation of Dali’s less prevalent, but skilled approach within the Realism movement, this artwork offers a glimpse into his process and conceptual development for larger compositions. The genre of the piece aligns with its preparatory purpose, serving as both a study and a sketch for a more elaborate piece.
The artwork presents a scene of dynamic movement featuring a group of warriors on horseback, seemingly in the midst of battle or a charge. The emphasis on realism in the study is apparent through the detailed depiction of the figures, horses, and the expressiveness of their poses. Each warrior is rendered with attention to armor, weaponry, and the drapery of garments, all contributing to the intensity of the scene. The backdrop is diffused, indicating that the artist’s focus was on the figures themselves rather than the surrounding environment. The palette consists of subdued, earthy tones which serves to highlight the figures’ action and forms, endowing the artwork with a sense of gravitas fitting for a historical battle scene.
