Ink Drawing - Head Of Column Of The Foot Grenadiers Of The Consular Guard - Empire

Head of the column of the Foot Grenadiers of the Consular Guard. A very fine ink drawing. Image size: 17.5 cm x 10.5 cm. Frame size: 28 cm x 22 cm. Condition: Good. They are awaiting a review or parade, probably during the Italian campaign, given their mismatched uniforms suggesting an army on campaign. The drummers, wearing hats or bearskin caps, are lined up at rest. In the foreground, the drum major in his flamboyant uniform stands ready to give his orders. This is very likely Jean-Baptiste, François Lépine, who would later hold this position in the Consular Guard, then the Imperial Guard. He already possesses the presence that would make him a celebrity and captivate the ladies, like Sénot among the Foot Chasseurs. The artist has captured the attitudes of the various figures very well. The rendering of the different faces is remarkably precise. This is a true photograph. Although unsigned, this work is undoubtedly by the hand of a great artist. This drawing is presented under glass in a gilt frame with an octagonal white cardboard mat with gilt edges.