The Death of Socrates

Peyron’s The Death of Socrates, commissioned by d’Angiviller for the Crown, was in competition with Jacques-Louis David’s work of the same subject. David’s confidence in surpassing his rival, coupled with his aggressive and ambitious nature, make it very possible that he chose to paint his own Socrates when he learned of Peyron’s plans. The force and clarity of David’s version was thrown into even sharper relief by the lack of drama and focus in Peyron’s work, and both the public and critics declared David’s work to be far superior. David eclipsed his long-time rival once and for all, and from then on Peyron had to be content with a subordinate role in the art world.