The Massacres of Chios by Eugène Delacroix – Process, Meaning and Effect

Abstract

What makes a great work of art? Why do we have works of art? Why do we need works of art? I decided to explore these questions by deconstructing the ideo - logical workings and conflicting narratives contained in a painting that has attracted and puzzled me for many years.

The Massacres of Chios 

was first exhibited at the famous Paris Salon of August 1824. It is based on the massacre of thousands of civilians on the island of Chios in 1822. 1