In Les Lépreux, Henri Rivière presents a somber scene filled with muted colors. The figures, draped in tattered garments, convey a sense of despair and suffering. The background is dark and indistinct, enhancing the emotional weight of the composition.

Rivière's use of shadow and light creates a haunting atmosphere around the afflicted individuals. The painting is characterized by its oil on canvas medium, which allows for rich texture and depth. Rivière employs a limited color palette, primarily using earthy tones and dark hues. The figures are rendered with a focus on their expressions, emphasizing their plight.

The brushwork is expressive, contributing to the overall emotional impact of the piece. Henri Rivière was a French painter associated with the Symbolist movement, known for his focus on themes of suffering and isolation. Les Lépreux reflects his interest in the human condition and the struggles faced by marginalized individuals. An interesting fact about this work is that it was created during a period when leprosy was often stigmatized, making the painting a commentary on societal attitudes towards illness and suffering.