Military & Political · 19th century
€ 450
One of a kind: this is the sheet in the photographs. Ships from Langweer, the Netherlands.
Good condition. Light age-related spotting in margins, but image areas are clean and richly colored. Strong plate impressions and no visible tears or creases.
Napoleonic Battle Cavalry – Mameluke, Chasseur, and Empress Dragoon, 1859
This compelling set of three hand-colored lithographs captures elite cavalry units of Napoleon’s Imperial Guard in the midst of dramatic battlefield scenes. These prints were drawn by the celebrated military illustrator Auguste Raffet, engraved by Charles Colin, and published in Paris in 1859 by Furne Fils as part of the important volume Napoléon Ier et la Garde Impériale, with historical commentary by military archivist Eugène Fieffé.
The first print, titled Mameluck, shows a fierce Mameluke warrior in exotic dress charging into battle on a white horse. His curved saber is raised mid-strike, while a fallen soldier lies beneath his steed. The Mamelukes, originally recruited from Egypt, were known for their unmatched cavalry skills and flamboyant uniforms. They were a symbol of Napoleon’s Eastern campaigns and his admiration for Middle Eastern military traditions.
The second plate, Chasseur à Cheval, presents a French light cavalryman from the Imperial Guard in full gallop, sword drawn and uniform vivid with red, blue, and gold. The battlefield is chaotic, and bodies of the fallen lie beneath the horse’s hooves. Chasseurs were known for their speed, mobility, and daring attacks, playing a critical role in reconnaissance and flanking maneuvers.
The third lithograph, Dragon de l’Impératrice, features a mounted Dragoon of the Empress’s regiment, sitting upright and composed amidst the aftermath of battle. Dressed in a pristine white and green uniform with a brass helmet and red plume, he commands attention. These dragoons were heavy cavalry known for both their striking appearance and formidable force in direct combat. This unit held special prestige as it was created in honor of Empress Joséphine.
Auguste Raffet, born in 1804 and trained under the great Antoine-Jean Gros, was among the finest chroniclers of the Napoleonic wars. His attention to historic accuracy and dynamic composition made his works popular among both collectors and military historians.
Condition
Good condition. Light age-related spotting in margins, but image areas are clean and richly colored. Strong impressions and no major flaws.
Framing tips
These action scenes pair well as a dramatic set. Frame with generous cream or light grey mounts and use dark wood or black frames to highlight the vivid colors and contrast of the uniforms. Ideal for a study, library, or history-themed interior.
