Battle of Puebla, 1863, Paper

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Prise de Puebla Mexico 1863 French Intervention Épinal Battle Print This dynamic French color lithograph illustrates the capture of Puebla … Read more Prise de Puebla Mexico 1863 French Intervention Épinal Battle Print This dynamic French color lithograph illustrates the capture of Puebla during the French intervention in Mexico, a decisive episode in the campaign that led to the establishment of the Second Mexican Empire under Emperor Maximilian I. Issued by Pellerin & Cie of Épinal, this print depicts the Prise de Puebla of 1863, when French forces overcame strong Mexican resistance after a prolonged and costly siege. The scene captures the height of the assault, with French infantry advancing amid smoke, artillery fire, and close combat. Soldiers charge forward with bayonets fixed, flags raised, and cannons firing at close range, while fallen combatants and shattered defenses emphasize the intensity of the engagement. The city of Puebla rises in the background, its churches and urban skyline providing a recognizable setting and reinforcing the historical specificity of the event. As with the finest Imagerie d’Épinal battle sheets, the composition is both dramatic and carefully structured, guiding the viewer’s eye through multiple simultaneous actions. Uniforms, weapons, and military gestures are rendered with clarity, while the vivid hand coloring heightens the sense of movement and urgency. The imagery reflects the French perspective on the conflict, presenting the battle as a moment of valor, sacrifice, and eventual triumph. Flanking and beneath the image, extensive original French text provides a detailed narrative of the campaign, outlining the political background, the siege operations, the role of General Forey and French expeditionary forces, and the strategic importance of Puebla. This textual component is integral to the work, anchoring the illustration firmly in its historical context and offering contemporary insight into how the conflict was presented to the French public. Épinal prints depicting overseas military campaigns were widely circulated in the 19th century, yet examples focusing on Mexico are comparatively less common than those illustrating European conflicts. This sheet stands out for its large scale, complex battle choreography, and strong decorative impact, making it an important visual document of French imperial ambition in the Americas. It appeals to collectors of military history, Mexican and French colonial history, and 19th-century popular prints, as well as to interior designers seeking a bold and historically resonant wall piece. Condition Good overall condition. Light age toning to the paper and minor handling wear consistent with age. Colors remain strong and well preserved. Margins intact, with text fully legible. No major tears, losses, or restorations observed. Framing tips This print benefits from a substantial presentation. A dark walnut or ebonized frame with a wide off-white or warm grey mat will balance the energetic composition and enhance legibility. Museum or UV-filtering glass is recommended to protect the original coloring. A generous mat adds visual depth and suits both classic and contemporary interiors. Technique: Color lithograph (Imagerie d’Épinal) Maker: Pellerin & Cie, Épinal, France, c.1863 See less