Death of Marat (1793) by Jacques-Louis David

Question 1

One-liner

Death of Marat

Answer 1

The lifeless body of a man is depicted in a bathtub, clutching a letter, with blood and a knife nearby.

Question 2

Line

Death of Marat

Answer 2

• Clean, organic lines outline direct our eyes to Marat’s body and objects like the knife and letter.
• Draws attention to Marat’s calm expression and the letter, emphasizing his role as a martyr.

Question 3

Form

Death of Marat

Answer 3

• Realistic three-dimensional rendering of Marat’s body, creates depth creates a cohesive and believable scene.
• Evokes a strong emotional response by portraying Marat’s body in a realistic manner, reinforcing the narrative of his martyrdom.

Question 4

Space

Death of Marat

Answer 4

• Contrasts Marat’s bloody body against a quiet and uneventful background, highlighting the stillness of death and creating overall balance between the still body and still background.
• Uneventful background reflects the neo-classical intention to return to the simplicity of Ancient Greek and Roman art

Question 5

Colour

Death of Marat

Answer 5

• Muted colour palette of reds, greens, browns, greys and Marat’s white cloth contrasts Marat’s dull body with the saturated blood.
• Marat dressed in white symbolises his martyrdom, death in purity - influences of christianity.
• Creates a dramatic and somber mood, highlighting innocence in death.

Question 6

Value

Death of Marat

Answer 6

• High contrast in shadows and highlights use of churiascuro emphasises Marat’s body
• Dramatic effect underscores the emotional intensity and focus on Marat as the martyr of the revolution.

Question 7

Texture

Death of Marat

Answer 7

• Suggests texture in garments and repeated lines in drapery compared to smooth skin
• Variety of textures add depth and realism.

Question 8

Conclusion

Death of Marat

Answer 8

• Aimed to depict Marat’s death as a powerful and emotional event, elevating him as a martyr of the French Revolution