Impressive Bronze Sculpture – “Imperial French Cuirassier 1804” mid 19th Century.
A beautifully detailed bronze sculpture of a soldier mounted on his horse bearing the insignia of Napoleon with silver and gold gilt and polychrome patina. On an onyx base (some small losses and chips). Plate mentioning “Corazziere Imperiale Francia 1804 64/200”. This piece is a limited edition and numbered 64 out of 200 made. The phrase “Corazziere Imperiale Francia 1804” appears to be Italian. It translates to “Imperial French Cuirassier 1804” in English.
Cuirassiers were heavy cavalry units in European armies, and “Imperial French Cuirassier” refers to a specific type of cavalryman serving in the French Imperial Army during the Napoleonic era, particularly around the year 1804 when Napoleon Bonaparte was crowned Emperor of the French. The Imperial Guard was born during the French Revolution as the Directory Guard, then transformed into the Consular Guard. When Napoleon became Emperor on 10 May 1804, the Consular Guard transformed into the Imperial Guard and was gradually enlarged. In 1809 the Imperial Guard was composed of the Old Guard, the Middle Guard and the Young Guard, becoming a sort of private army within the national army.
The Imperial Guard was characterised by devotion and absolute loyalty to Napoleon and the senior officers of the latter placed themselves in extreme defence of the Emperor on the day of the Battle of Waterloo. The insignia ‘N’ for Napoleon was primarily used during his reign as Emperor, which lasted from 1804 to 1814 (with a brief return in 1815 during the Hundred Days). This insignia was commonly associated with his imperial regime and was used on various items such as military uniforms, official documents, and personal belongings. This piece is very beautiful and striking. The figure is in very good condition, although missing a stirrup. Mounted on an Onyx base with some small losses. The piece is very heavy so please note that for shipping purposes and in order to avoid damage whilst in transit, the base will be removed from the bronze. This is easily reattached using the original bolts underneath the base.
