Heroic Roman Battle Scene, 1804, Paper

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Heroic Roman Battle Scene, French Neoclassical Engraving, Napoleonic Era, 1804 : This powerful large-format engraving depicts a dramatic classical battle … Read more Heroic Roman Battle Scene, French Neoclassical Engraving, Napoleonic Era, 1804 : This powerful large-format engraving depicts a dramatic classical battle rendered in the heroic Neoclassical style of early 19th-century France. Armored warriors and semi-nude fighters clash at close range, horses rear in panic, and fallen bodies pile beneath the chaos of combat. The composition is densely populated yet carefully structured, with a strong emphasis on muscular anatomy, dynamic movement, and sculptural form. Although visually reminiscent of earlier Old Master battle engravings by artists such as Gérard Audran in the 17th century, this work belongs to a distinctly later artistic tradition. It reflects the renewed fascination with antiquity that emerged in France after the Revolution and during the Napoleonic era, when classical heroism, martial virtue, and physical idealism were consciously revived as political and cultural symbols. The design is by Jean-Jacques de Boissieu, known as Lafage (1745–1810), and the engraving was executed by Jean-Baptiste Moïse. The plate is dated 1804, placing it firmly within the early Napoleonic period. Unlike Baroque battle scenes, which often emphasize theatrical movement and narrative drama, this engraving focuses on idealized anatomy and disciplined violence, echoing the academic ideals promoted by the circle of Jacques-Louis David. The engraving technique is highly refined, with dense cross-hatching and confident line work that give the figures a sculptural, almost marble-like presence. The scale and ambition of the composition suggest it was intended as a statement piece rather than an illustration, appealing to collectors of classical art, Napoleonic imagery, and academic figure studies. Large, narrative battle engravings of this quality from the early 19th century are increasingly scarce on the market. This work offers an impressive alternative to earlier Audran-period engravings, combining classical subject matter with the stylistic clarity and strength of French Neoclassicism. Condition Good condition for an early 19th-century engraving. Light age toning and minor scattered spotting consistent with period paper. Margins present. No major tears or losses observed. Framing tips This engraving is best presented with a generous off-white or warm stone mat to emphasize scale and detail, framed in dark wood or black with a restrained profile. Museum glass is recommended to protect the fine line work. Technique: Engraving Maker: Jean-Jacques de Boissieu (Lafage), France, 1804 See less