Auguste Raffet, Retreat from Constantine, 1836, Lithograph

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Lithographie on paper, published by Gihaut Frères. Signed and dated in the plate. An important historical lithograph by Denis Auguste … Read more Lithographie on paper, published by Gihaut Frères. Signed and dated in the plate. An important historical lithograph by Denis Auguste Marie Raffet, depicting one of the most dramatic episodes of the ill-fated French expedition against Constantine in Algeria during November 1836. The composition illustrates the disciplined withdrawal of French forces as the 2nd Light Infantry Regiment (2e Léger), under the command of Chef de Bataillon Nicolas Changarnier, repels repeated attacks by Algerian cavalry and infantry, enabling the remainder of the expeditionary force to retreat in good order. Raffet captures the confusion and violence of battle with extraordinary energy. The foreground is animated by fallen soldiers, overturned equipment, wounded horses, and charging cavalry, while disciplined ranks of French infantry form a defensive barrier behind hastily erected field obstacles. Clouds of smoke, dramatic movement, and carefully orchestrated contrasts between order and chaos convey both the ferocity of the engagement and the professionalism of the defending troops. Rather than presenting an idealised victory, Raffet records a costly military withdrawal with remarkable realism and emotional immediacy. The print belongs to Raffet's celebrated series documenting the French campaigns in Algeria, works that profoundly influenced later military artists and historians alike. The failed expedition against Constantine represented one of the defining episodes of early French colonial expansion in North Africa, and Raffet's images remain among the most significant contemporary visual records of the campaign. Today, impressions from this series are highly regarded for both their historical importance and their outstanding artistic quality. Condition: Good overall condition with a strong, well-preserved impression and rich tonal contrasts. Light age-related toning, scattered foxing, and minor handling wear are visible primarily within the margins, consistent with the print's age. The image itself remains clear, detailed, and visually impressive. This piece is attributed to the mentioned designer/maker. It has no attribution mark and no
official proof of authenticity,
however it is well documented in design history. I take full responsibility for any authenticity



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