William Haussoullier - Allegory Of War Music

William HAUSSOULLIER (Paris 1815 - 1892)
The Assault (Allegory of War Music) 
Graphite and stump
33 x 40.5 cm out of frame
Fading, spotting
Monogrammed "H" on verso
Framed

Related works : 
- L'Assaut, Arch of the Garnier Opera House, Paul Baudry (1828 - 1886)
- Possibly a lithograph for which this drawing is preparatory

This is a reworking of one of the ceilings painted for the decoration of the Opéra Garnier by Paul Baudry. Haussoullier was a close friend of Baudry and on several occasions interpreted his compositions in lithographs. The drawing on display shows meticulous, surgical precision, bringing out the anatomical modelling and contrasts admirably. The monumentality and severity of the work are also well conveyed by Haussoullier, who shows deep respect for the immense task of decorating the Opéra. Other drawings by the artist depicting the sets are in the Louvre and Petit Palais. 

Research file available on request

Consultation by appointment only