What you are looking at
Three brothers in Roman armor raise their arms to swear an oath to their father, who holds up their swords. On the right, the women of the family slump in grief.
Why it is famous
The story comes from early Roman history: the three Horatii brothers fight three champions of Alba Longa to settle a war. David painted it in Rome and showed it at the Paris Salon of 1785. Its stark composition and message of duty made it the manifesto of Neoclassicism.
How big is The Oath of the Horatii?
The Oath of the Horatii measures 330 × 425 cm (129.9 × 167.3 in), without its frame. Its surface is about 33 times the area of the Mona Lisa.
Compare it with other paintings
Where to see it
It hangs in the Louvre's Denon wing with David's other large paintings.
Museums move and lend paintings. Check the museum's website before you travel to see one work. See all famous paintings in Paris.
More by Jacques-Louis David
All Jacques-Louis David paintings
Also at the Musée du Louvre
Frequently asked questions
Who painted The Oath of the Horatii?
Jacques-Louis David painted The Oath of the Horatii in 1784 to 1785.
Where is The Oath of the Horatii?
The Oath of the Horatii is in the Musée du Louvre, Paris, France.
How big is The Oath of the Horatii?
330 × 425 cm (129.9 × 167.3 in). Its surface is about 33 times the area of the Mona Lisa.
What is The Oath of the Horatii made with?
Oil on canvas.
Sources: Wikidata Q476458; Wikipedia, "The Oath of the Horatii". Checked October 17, 2026. How we check.