Military & Political · 19th century
€ 340
One of a kind: this is the sheet in the photographs. Ships from Langweer, the Netherlands.
Good overall condition. Light age-related toning to the paper, mainly at the margins. Minor scattered spots consistent with age. Plate mark visible. No major tears or losses.
This finely hand-colored military print depicts a Dutch grenadier serving in Napoleon Bonaparte’s Imperial Guard, specifically identified as a member of the 3rd Dutch Regiment (3e Régiment Hollandais). The plate originates from the monumental illustrated work *Histoire de l’Empereur Napoléon* by P.-M. Laurent de l’Ardèche, published in Paris in 1843 and illustrated after designs by Horace Vernet and contemporaries. Although published decades after the events, the imagery is based on carefully documented uniforms and formations from the Napoleonic period.
Following the annexation of the Kingdom of Holland in 1810, Dutch troops were formally absorbed into the French Imperial Army. Select Dutch units were elevated to the elite Imperial Guard, a distinction reserved for soldiers of exceptional discipline, physical stature, and proven loyalty. The Dutch grenadiers quickly gained a formidable reputation for steadiness under fire, notably during the later campaigns of the Empire. Their integration into the Guard also served a political function, symbolizing Napoleon’s direct control over the Netherlands after the abdication of King Louis Bonaparte.
The figure is shown in full grenadier uniform, wearing the tall bearskin cap with red plume, white crossbelts, and dark blue coat with contrasting facings—details that clearly distinguish Guard infantry from line regiments. The musket carried at rest emphasizes the soldier’s role as heavy infantry, trained for both parade-ground precision and battlefield endurance. Subtle background elements suggest a campaign setting rather than a purely ceremonial pose, reinforcing the martial identity of the Dutch Guard.
For collectors, this print is especially significant as visual documentation of a relatively small but historically important contingent within Napoleon’s forces. Dutch Imperial Guard material is far scarcer than that depicting French Guard units, making such images highly sought after by collectors of Napoleonic history, Dutch military heritage, and early 19th-century uniform studies. The plate also appeals to scholars and interior designers alike for its combination of historical specificity, balanced composition, and restrained yet vivid hand coloring.
Condition report:
Good overall condition. Light age-related toning to the paper, mainly at the margins. Minor scattered spots consistent with age. Plate mark visible. No major tears or losses.
Framing tips:
This print benefits from a classic presentation. A dark wood or ebonized frame paired with an off-white or light grey mat will enhance the contrast of the uniform colors while preserving its historical character. Museum glass is recommended to protect the hand coloring.
Technique: Hand-colored engraving
Maker: After Horace Vernet, France, published Paris, 1843
