Military & Political · 19th century
€ 440
One of a kind: this is the sheet in the photographs. Ships from Langweer, the Netherlands.
Good overall condition. Light age toning and scattered foxing consistent with age. Margins ample. Colors remain fresh. Plate mark faintly visible. Blank verso.
Chevau-Léger Français, Napoleonic Guard Cavalry Officer on Horseback, 1843
This finely executed hand-colored print depicts a Chevau-Léger Français, a light cavalryman of the French Imperial Guard, shown mounted and carrying a standard during the Napoleonic Wars. The subject represents one of the elite mounted units serving Napoleon I, renowned for their discipline, speed, and ceremonial splendor. Although the uniform illustrated corresponds to the year 1812, this impression was published in 1843 as part of the illustrated volume *Histoire de l’Empereur Napoléon* by P.-M. Laurent de l’Ardèche, with plates after designs by Hippolyte Bellangé, one of the most respected military artists of 19th-century France.
The Chevau-Légers formed an important component of Napoleon’s cavalry arm, bridging the roles of reconnaissance, escort duty, and battlefield maneuver. In this image, the rider’s richly detailed uniform is carefully rendered, including the crested helmet, sash, and saddle furniture, all emphasized through delicate hand coloring. The horse is shown in calm profile, reinforcing the sense of control and readiness that defined Imperial Guard cavalry units.
Bellangé’s work is particularly valued for its accuracy and liveliness, combining documentary precision with a romanticized vision of the Napoleonic era that appealed strongly to mid-19th-century collectors. Prints from the 1843 edition are especially desirable, as they capture this later historical reflection on Napoleon’s legacy while retaining high production quality and vibrant color.
This print is well suited for collectors of Napoleonic military history, French imperial iconography, or equestrian subjects, and also works beautifully as a decorative historical piece in both classic and contemporary interiors.
Condition
Good overall condition. Light age toning and scattered foxing consistent with age. Margins ample. Colors remain fresh. Plate mark faintly visible. Blank verso.
Framing tips
This print presents well with a neutral or warm off-white mat and a classic black, walnut, or gilt frame. A slightly wider mat will emphasize the composition and enhance its presence on the wall.
Technique: Hand-colored engraving
Maker: After Hippolyte Bellangé, France, published Paris 1843
