Two Farm Horses by a Barn

Two Farm Horses by a Barn from around 1825 at the Bavarian collection shows Delacroix's interest in animal painting. His studies of horses, inspired by English sporting art and Gericault's example, demonstrate his ability to capture animal anatomy and movement. Delacroix's method combined rapid, gestural underpainting with careful final glazing, creating surfaces of extraordinary richness and warmth; his studio practice was meticulous despite the apparent spontaneity of the results.

The horses are rendered with naturalistic observation and warm palette. Delacroix's vigorous brushwork captures the animals' physical presence and temperament.