Henri III

Henri III from 1828, one of Bonington's final works before his death from tuberculosis at age twenty-five, reflects his growing engagement with historical subjects. The French king is depicted with the rich costume detail and romantic atmosphere that characterized the troubadour style popular in Restoration-era French painting. Characteristic of the artist's mature approach, the work displays luminous, atmospheric color applied with the freshness of watercolor in oil painting, alla prima technique that captured the transience of light on water and architecture.

Rich color and meticulous costume painting combine with Bonington's characteristic luminous handling, the historical figure rendered with the fresh, sparkling technique usually associated with his landscapes.