Jacques-Louis David, 1784 – Louvre Museum, Paris

Oil on canvas 330 × 425 cm (129.9 × 167.3 in)

Although David painted this before the Revolution, it spoke directly to revolutionary values as well as the rising tension in the country at the time. In the scene, three brothers swear to fight for Rome, while the women around them mourn. The painting praises duty, sacrifice, and loyalty to the state over personal emotions. David was already interested in political change, and he used this story from Roman history to teach viewers about civic responsibility. With its strong lines and serious mood, the painting became a model for revolutionary art. It was a call to action before the call was ever spoken.

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