Military & Political · 19th century
€ 340
One of a kind: this is the sheet in the photographs. Ships from Langweer, the Netherlands.
Good condition. Light age toning to the paper with minor scattered foxing, mainly confined to the margins. Colours remain strong and well preserved. Margins intact. No major tears or losses.
Hussar Cavalryman on Horseback, Napoleonic Military Print, France 1809
This hand-coloured 19th-century military engraving depicts a French hussar in full mounted action, dated 1809, during the height of the Napoleonic Wars. The hussar is shown riding at speed, musket raised, wearing the highly distinctive and flamboyant uniform that made light cavalry regiments among the most visually striking units in Napoleon Bonaparte’s armies. The dynamic pose of both rider and horse conveys speed, agility, and the aggressive reconnaissance role for which hussars were famed.
The richly detailed uniform includes the tall shako with plume, braided dolman and pelisse worn over the shoulder, sabre at the side, and cartridge box suspended from the belt. Such details were carefully regulated and are rendered here with documentary precision. In the background, a second mounted soldier adds depth and context, suggesting skirmishing or pursuit—typical duties of hussar regiments during the campaigns of the Empire.
This print originates from *Histoire de l’Empereur Napoléon* by P.-M. Laurent de l’Ardèche, published in Paris in 1843, with illustrations after designs by Horace Vernet. Vernet was the preeminent French military painter of the 19th century and served as an official artist to the state. His works are celebrated for their accuracy, energy, and ability to convey both uniform detail and the lived experience of soldiers. Though published later, these plates reflect careful historical research and contemporary admiration for Napoleon’s army.
An excellent collector’s piece for those interested in Napoleonic cavalry, French military history, or hand-coloured uniform prints, and particularly well suited for pairing with other cavalry or hussar subjects from the same series.
Condition report:
Good condition. Light age toning to the paper with minor scattered foxing, mainly confined to the margins. Colours remain strong and well preserved. Margins intact. No major tears or losses.
Framing tips:
A dark walnut or ebonized frame with an off-white or pale grey mat will emphasize the vivid reds and blues of the hussar uniform. Especially striking when displayed alongside other Napoleonic cavalry prints.
Technique: Hand-coloured engraving
Maker: After Horace Vernet, France, Paris, 1843
