By Gabriel Hervé (active early 20th century)
Oil on canvas, signed, dated and dedicated: “To a brave man, this military sketch” February 1915
Frame decorated with a brass plaque: “SOLDIER OF THE GREAT WAR 1914–1918”
Dimensions with frame 58x69 cm
This portrait represents André Melchissédèc (1870–19..), who volunteered in 1914 at the age of 44, from Buenos Aires, at the start of the First World War. Wounded at the front, he is depicted here as he leaves the hospital, his eyes blue and lively, his temple bandaged, the decorations visible on his sergeant’s jacket of the 249th Infantry Regiment. In the distance we can make out the red light of explosions and shrapnel.
Painted in Paris by Gabriel Hervé in February 1915, this painting is a testimony filled with emotion and respect. The handwritten dedication - "To a brave man, this military sketch" - attests to a work painted in the spirit of a personal homage.
André Melchissédèc is not unknown: he is a dramatic artist, winner of comedy prizes at the Paris Conservatoire, known for an act of civilian bravery in 1895 (rescuing a woman in danger), and knight of the Legion of Honor in 1937.
He is most likely the son of Léon Melchissédèc - whose father was also called André - one of the great glories of the Paris Opera Garnier at the end of the 19th century, a famous baritone and creator of numerous roles in French opera (see photos).
Having volunteered from Buenos Aires in 1914, Melchissédèc responded to the call for French people abroad at the start of the war. The Argentine capital was then home to a large French community, and a recruitment office allowed expatriates to sign up to return to fight. This late choice—at the age of 44—testifies to a deep patriotism, echoing that of his father, a soldier from 1870, and a career already marked by a sense of duty.
This portrait embodies a singular destiny, at the crossroads of lyrical heritage, civic engagement, and the test of war. Its psychological intensity, warm palette, and composition make it a powerful and disturbing work, far beyond a simple war document.
Very good overall condition. Slight surface wear. The old biographical label on the back is missing, but its contents were returned by the family (see photo)