The artwork titled “Maid of Orleans,” created by Jan Matejko, belongs to the Romanticism art movement. It is a history painting measuring 484 x 973 cm and is located at the National Museum in Poznań, Poland.
The artwork is a grand and vibrant depiction, showcasing a dynamic scene filled with numerous figures engaged in intense action. At its center, a triumphant and illuminated figure, presumably Joan of Arc, holds a white banner whilst mounted on horseback, signifying her pivotal role. Surrounding her are soldiers and attendants, creating a vivid and chaotic battlefield atmosphere. Above, celestial beings descend, emphasizing the divine intervention believed to aid Joan. The artist’s use of vivid colors and dramatic lighting enhances the emotions conveyed, characteristic of the Romantic style, and underscores the historic and legendary significance of the scene. The composition is intricate, drawing the observer’s eyes across the varied and detailed elements, inviting a deep engagement with the historical narrative portrayed.
