Watercolor: Waterloo. Napoleon. J. Douzon

J. Douzon – The Eve of Battle: Austerlitz or Waterloo? – 1900
Watercolor and ink on paper, signed “J. Douzon” in the lower left and dated “1900” in the lower right.
This humorous and satirical composition depicts Napoleon I on horseback, scanning the horizon through a telescope, accompanied by several caricatured military figures, in front of a marching army.
The scene features numerous unusual details, including a balloon in the sky, a figure carrying a crate of dynamite, and a building bearing the inscription “Rue de Charonne.”
The work is titled “La Veillée d’armes – Austerlitz or Waterloo?”, referring to the two famous Napoleonic battles.
A humorous drawing, rendered with expressive brushwork and delicate colors, reflecting the spirit of French caricature from the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Condition: Signs of wear and paper aging; small stains and visible signs of age. Original frame showing wear and imperfections; in fair condition; may need to be reframed according to the buyer’s preferences. Sold as is, with its frame.
Dimensions with frame: 61 × 45 cm.
Period: 1900.