About this sheet
Conflict with Siam 1893 French Naval Action Épinal Colonial Print
This large and richly detailed French color lithograph illustrates the conflict between France and Siam during the Paknam Incident of 1893, a decisive episode in the expansion of French influence in Southeast Asia. Issued by Pellerin & Cie of Épinal, the print documents the naval confrontation on the Chao Phraya River that led to the establishment of French dominance over Laos and marked a turning point in Franco-Siamese relations.
The composition is divided into multiple narrative scenes. On the left, French sailors aboard the aviso Inconstant are shown operating Hotchkiss revolving cannons as the vessel forces its passage past the fortified river defenses of Paknam. The river setting, warships, and Asian architecture clearly situate the action near Bangkok, emphasizing the strategic importance of naval power in colonial conflicts. On the right, the interior of the gunboat La Comète is depicted in meticulous detail, showing sailors maneuvering a heavy artillery piece below deck, highlighting modern naval technology and disciplined coordination.
At the center, three portrait medallions identify key figures in the conflict: Inspector Grosgurin of the Annamite militia, whose death intensified hostilities; Counter-Admiral Humann, commander of the French naval division in the Far East; and Auguste Pavie, French consul-general in Bangkok and a central diplomatic architect of French expansion in Indochina. These portraits anchor the scenes in contemporary personalities and underscore the combination of military force and diplomacy that defined the conflict.
Below the imagery, the extensive original French text provides a detailed account of the political background, naval engagement, and consequences of the confrontation. It explains the French ultimatum to Siam, the exchange of fire at Paknam, and the resulting blockade of Bangkok, offering insight into how the episode was presented to the French public at the time. As with the strongest Épinal sheets, image and text function together as both illustration and historical narrative.
Épinal prints addressing French colonial expansion in Southeast Asia are increasingly sought after, and this example is particularly notable for its complex, multi-scene composition and its focus on modern naval warfare. It appeals to collectors of colonial history, naval history, Indochina and Thailand, and late-19th-century political imagery, as well as to interior designers looking for a large, visually engaging historical statement piece.
Condition
Good overall condition. Light age toning to the paper and minor handling wear consistent with age. Original hand coloring remains strong and well preserved. Margins intact, with text and imagery fully legible. No major tears, losses, or restorations observed.
Framing tips
This print benefits from a wide mat to visually separate the multiple scenes and portrait medallions. A dark wood or black frame with an off-white or light grey mat works particularly well. Museum or UV-filtering glass is recommended to preserve the original colors. The generous scale makes it suitable as a focal piece in both classic and contemporary interiors.
Technique: Color lithograph (Imagerie d’Épinal)
Maker: Pellerin & Cie, Épinal, France, 1893
