Henri Alexandre Georges Regnault (1843-1871)...

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Henri Alexandre Georges Regnault (1843-1871)
Summary Judgment under the Moorish Kings of Granada
Oil on canvas
1870
146 x 302 cm
(4’ 9.48” x 9’ 10.9”)
Private collection

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Against an architectural background based on the Alhambra in Granada and infused with an orange glow, Regnault has painted a scene of decapitation. The low angle and vigorous rising composition give the main character an imposing presence.

The executioner’s detached attitude and commonplace gesture contrast with the foreground in which the blood dripping down the steps joins the severed head to the body. The colours also take part in this opposition because the executioner’s caftan, which picks up the orange tones of the background, contrasts with the victim’s green and black clothing.

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