French 19th-Century Oil Painting: Follower of Alfred de Dreux – Capitaine des mousquetaires se retournant,
A beautiful 19th-century oil on canvas Capitaine des mousquetaires se retournant (Captain of the Musketeers Turning Back). This work is an almost identical copy of de Dreux’s original confirmed composition, and painted contemporaneously with the original, and of the same dimensions. It captures the powerful presence of the mounted musketeer, his grey horse, and the atmosphere of the original.
The painting is signed Alfred de Dreux lower right, however, the signature is apocryphal; the painting most likely not by de Dreux himself, but an artist or student in his circle or a follower of the same period. Such copies were highly sought after at the time, reflecting the immense popularity of de Dreux’s equestrian works.
The composition is listed in Marie-Christine Renauld’s catalogue raisonné as Capitaine des mousquetaires se retournant, inventory number MCR 132, providing clear reference to the original work. Unframed size: 72 x 59 cm (28.3 x 23.2 inches). The painting is presented in a restored vintage wood and metal gilt frame. The canvas has been relined in antiquity, a common historical conservation method that stabilises the original fabric and preserves the paint surface. The painting has also undergone recent professional repairs, which were carefully executed without disturbing the existing lining using recognised conservation techniques. The surface shows light craquelure consistent with age, and the colours remain vibrant. Overall, the painting is in very good antique condition and ready to hang.
