The Death of Socrates

The Death of Socrates, painted by Jacques Louis David in 1787, is a monumental oil on canvas widely considered a defining work of the Neoclassical movement. David created this piece shortly after the critical success of his Oath of the Horatii, further solidifying his reputation as the premier history painter in Europe. The painting depicts the final moments of the classical philosopher Socrates, who, condemned to death by the Athenian democracy, prepares to accept the hemlock cup, prioritizing obedience to the law over his own life.

The composition emphasizes intellectual and moral fortitude, placing Socrates at the center, still lecturing as he reaches for the poison. David employs rigorous draftsmanship and dramatic lighting, characteristics central to Neoclassical aesthetics, to highlight the scene's emotional gravity. The room is filled with Men witnessing the event, conveying various states of grief and philosophical commitment, most notably Plato, seated tragically at the foot of the bed. The inclusion of a Lyre tossed casually in the foreground symbolizes the abandonment of earthly pleasures and the disrupted harmony of philosophical life caused by the state’s decree.

This highly influential canvas resides in the permanent collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art. David’s meticulous historical research and powerful narrative approach made The Death of Socrates instantly famous upon its creation. It continues to be studied as an archetype of civic virtue and moral sacrifice. Due to the work’s significance and age, high-quality prints and detailed reproductions are often made available through public domain initiatives, allowing widespread access to this celebrated example of 18th-century French art.