Napoleonic Wars, Battle of Eylau, Hand-Colored Engraving, 1807

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Battle of Eylau 1807, Napoleonic Wars – Bovinet Engraving, Paris : A highly evocative hand-colored engraving depicting the Battle of … Read more Battle of Eylau 1807, Napoleonic Wars – Bovinet Engraving, Paris : A highly evocative hand-colored engraving depicting the Battle of Preussisch-Eylau, fought on 9 February 1807, one of the most dramatic and hard-fought engagements of the Napoleonic Wars. This composition originates from the rare and historically significant publication “Faits Mémorables de la Vie Militaire et Privée de Sa Majesté l’Empereur des Français et Roi d’Italie”, published in Paris in 1807. Issued at the height of Napoleon’s power, this work was conceived as both historical record and imperial narrative, documenting key moments of the Emperor’s campaigns for a contemporary audience. The engraving captures the chaos and intensity of the battlefield with remarkable clarity. Cavalry charges sweep across the foreground, artillery smoke rises in heavy clouds, and dense infantry formations stretch across the horizon. At the left, a prominent church structure anchors the scene, providing a striking architectural counterpoint to the unfolding violence. Fallen soldiers and shattered equipment in the foreground add a powerful sense of immediacy, reinforcing the brutal reality of the conflict. Unlike many later, more romanticized depictions, this early 19th-century print retains a rawness that reflects how the battle was experienced and remembered at the time. The Battle of Eylau, fought between Napoleon’s Grande Armée and Russian forces, was notable for its enormous casualties and lack of decisive victory—marking a turning point in the perception of Napoleonic invincibility. Engraved after the designs of Bovinet, this piece exemplifies the refined yet expressive style of French military printmaking of the period. The delicate hand coloring enhances depth and atmosphere without overpowering the fine engraved lines, while the wide margins and visible plate mark emphasize its authenticity as an original early 19th-century impression. For collectors, this engraving represents a compelling fusion of historical importance and visual drama. For interior use, it offers strong decorative impact, particularly suited to a study, library, or curated wall arrangement of Napoleonic subjects. Special note: This is an original early 19th century engraving, not a reproduction. All items we offer are authentic period works of art over 100 years old. The engraving is sold unframed; any framed images are shown for presentation and interior inspiration only and may not always be to scale. Condition report: In fair to good condition, with visible age-related wear. Notable vertical fold lines from original binding, as issued. Areas of staining and discoloration, particularly in the margins and lower sheet. Minor creasing and handling marks. Plate mark visible. The image itself remains clear, with well-preserved engraved detail and hand coloring. Framing tips: Given the visible folds and patina, this piece benefits from a museum-style presentation with a generous mat to visually isolate the image area. A warm ivory or light taupe mat works well to harmonize with the aged paper tone. A dark walnut or ebonized frame will create contrast and elevate the dramatic composition, ideal for a classic “study” interior. For a more contemporary approach, a simple black frame with wide matting provides a clean, gallery-style presentation. Technique: Engraving, hand colored Maker: Bovinet, French, published Paris, 1807 See less