Antique Military Engravings

Item Description:
A set of three hand-colored military engravings, each measuring approximately 11" x 7" (image area), housed in original matching wooden frames with a faux tortoiseshell finish, bringing the total framed size to 21" x 18" per piece. The engravings depict dramatic battle scenes from the Napoleonic Wars (1803–1815), including identifiable events such as:

1. The Battle of Waterloo
2. The Death of the Duke of Brunswick
3. A third, unidentified Napoleonic battle scene

Each print portrays 19th-century military uniforms, formations, cavalry, and officers in mid-engagement, using traditional European composition and coloring techniques of the time.

Medium:

• Hand-colored etchings (likely copperplate or steel engravings)
• Printed on period rag paper
• Watercolor or gouache over ink

Probable Origin:

• France or England, early 19th century
• These types of military prints were commonly published post-campaign to commemorate famous battles and leaders of the Napoleonic Wars
• Potential publishers include firms such as Ackermann & Co. (London) or Martinet (Paris) — both well-known for producing military scenes for a patriotic and collector market

Estimated Age:

• Based on the uniform details, coloring, and printing style, the prints were likely produced circa 1815–1830, placing them at roughly 190–210 years old

Condition:

• Excellent: The prints show minimal fading or foxing; coloration remains strong and unfaded
• Framing appears original or period-consistent; glass and matting are well-preserved
• No obvious tears, discoloration, or moisture damage visible in the images provided

Provenance & History:

• Purchased over 50 years ago at a flea market for $15
• Believed by current owner to have original frames
• Displayed with care, contributing to their well-preserved condition

Current Market Value (2024)

• Retail Value (for the full set of 3):
  $300 – $600 USD, depending on confirmed authorship and further authentication
• Auction Estimate:
  $200 – $400 USD, potentially more in a militaria-focused or European historical sale
• Insurance Replacement Value (for the full framed set):
  $750 USD (due to rarity and historical value)

Recommendations:

1. Professional Authentication

• To maximize value or list through a fine arts auctioneer, consider a professional appraisal by a qualified appraiser or military art historian.
• Specifically, identifying the third print or confirming the engraver (e.g., Carle Vernet, Dubourg, or Jenkins) could significantly increase value.

2. Preservation

• Keep away from direct sunlight and high humidity.
• Acid-free backing and UV-protective glass are recommended if you plan to reframe.

Summary:
This is a well-preserved and visually compelling set of early 19th-century hand-colored Napoleonic military engravings. The subject matter, coloring, and frames make them desirable to collectors of militaria, historical prints, and Napoleonic artifacts. With further verification, they may prove to be the work of a known publisher or artist, elevating their value.