About this sheet
Battle of Ocana 1809 – Napoleonic Wars Grand Armée Scene
A vivid and action-filled hand-colored engraving depicting the Battle of Ocana, fought on 19 November 1809 during the Peninsular War, one of the decisive French victories in Spain under Napoleon’s command.
This composition captures the height of the battle’s intensity, with cavalry charges surging through the foreground, soldiers falling amidst broken artillery, and dense formations clashing across the landscape. The scene is rich in movement and drama: rearing horses, raised sabres, and swirling smoke convey the violence and momentum of the engagement. In the middle distance, tightly ordered infantry lines and advancing troops extend toward the horizon, reinforcing the scale of the conflict.
The Battle of Ocana was a critical moment in Napoleon’s Spanish campaign, where French forces achieved a major victory over the Spanish army, temporarily consolidating control over central Spain. This engraving reflects the triumphal narrative promoted in contemporary French publications, presenting the battle as a display of discipline, strength, and military superiority.
Produced in Paris in the early 19th century, this print originates from the important work “Faits Mémorables de la Vie Militaire et Privée de Sa Majesté l’Empereur des Français et Roi d’Italie,” a publication intended to document and celebrate the achievements of the Grande Armée. Engraved in fine detail and enhanced with original hand coloring, the print balances precision with expressive storytelling.
The composition is particularly strong from a decorative perspective, with a dynamic foreground scene contrasted against a structured battlefield beyond. The wide margins and clearly visible plate mark further emphasize its authenticity as an original period engraving.
For collectors, this piece represents a key episode in the Napoleonic Wars and the Peninsular campaign. For interior display, it offers a bold and energetic visual statement, ideal for a study, library, or as part of a curated set of military or historical engravings.
Special note: This is an original early 19th century engraving, not a reproduction. All items we offer are authentic period works of art over 100 years old. The engraving is sold unframed; any framed images are shown for presentation and interior inspiration only and may not always be to scale.
Condition report:
In fair to good condition, with visible vertical fold lines from original binding, as issued. General age-related toning and areas of staining in the margins. Minor creasing and handling wear. Plate mark visible. The image remains clear, with well-preserved engraved detail and hand coloring.
Framing tips:
This piece benefits from a museum-style presentation with a generous off-white or ivory mat to isolate the image and soften the aged margins. A dark walnut or ebonized frame enhances the dramatic tones and gives a classic, high-end appearance. For a more contemporary interior, a slim black frame with wide matting provides a clean and refined look.
Technique: Engraving with original hand coloring
Maker: French School, published Paris, early 19th century
