Cuirassiers Charging the Highlanders at the Battle of Waterloo on 18th June 1815 Felix Philippoteaux (1815-1884)

The composition presents a chaotic and violent clash between two military forces on what appears to be uneven terrain. A dense mass of cavalry, identifiable by their distinctive cuirasses and weaponry, surges forward in a dynamic charge toward a line of infantry. The foreground is dominated by the melee – a tangle of horses, men, weapons, and swirling smoke that obscures much detail but conveys an immediate sense of brutal engagement.
The artist has employed a dramatic use of light and shadow to heighten the intensity of the scene. A diffused, overcast sky provides a muted backdrop, while pockets of intense illumination highlight specific areas of conflict – the faces of charging soldiers, the glint of steel, and plumes of smoke rising from cannon fire. This selective lighting draws attention to key moments within the larger battle, creating a sense of depth and immediacy.
The arrangement of figures is carefully orchestrated to convey movement and momentum. The cavalry’s forward thrust is emphasized by their diagonal trajectory across the canvas, contrasting with the more static, defensive posture of the infantry line. The artist has rendered the horses with considerable anatomical detail, capturing their power and ferocity as they surge into battle. The soldiers are depicted in a range of poses – some charging bravely, others falling or struggling amidst the chaos – illustrating the unpredictable nature of warfare.
Beyond the immediate depiction of combat, there is an underlying narrative concerning national identity and military prowess. The uniforms and weaponry suggest opposing sides engaged in a decisive confrontation. The composition seems to celebrate the courage and determination of the attacking force, while simultaneously acknowledging the resilience and steadfastness of those defending their position.
The landscape itself contributes to the overall meaning. The rolling hills and distant horizon evoke a sense of vastness and historical significance, placing this particular engagement within a larger context of conflict and national struggle. The smoke-filled atmosphere not only obscures details but also symbolizes the confusion and uncertainty inherent in warfare – a visual representation of the human cost of battle.