19th Century Hand-Colored Lithograph – Mounted Cuirassier Officer

This vivid 19th-century hand-colored lithograph depicts a dashing cuirassier officer astride a powerful steed, galloping across the page with dramatic flair. Framed in its original silvered wood frame, the image captures the pomp and martial elegance of Europe’s elite heavy cavalry—ideal for collectors of military art, Napoleonic or Imperial iconography.

Historical Context

Cuirassiers were the armored cavalry units of 18th- and 19th-century European armies, most famously fielded by France, Prussia, Austria, and several German kingdoms. The officer portrayed here wears a metal cuirass and an elaborate helmet with a black horsehair plume, elements typically associated with ceremonial or parade uniforms of elite regiments. The red trim, epaulettes, and saddlecloth edging suggest a high-ranking figure.

The stylistic presentation—bold posture, dramatic musculature of the horse, and finely shaded uniform—suggests the work may be based on or influenced by mid-to-late 19th century European cavalry illustrations, such as those of Richard Knötel or Eugène Titeux. The presence of a troop of cuirassiers in the background further enhances the sense of martial command.

Physical Description

• Medium: Hand-colored lithograph or chromolithograph

• Framed Dimensions: Approx. 10 x 12 inches

• Frame: Original or period silver-painted wood, weathered and distressed

• Subject: Mounted cuirassier officer with plumed helmet, cuirass breastplate, and cavalry sabretache

• Background: Faint line of additional troopers in soft formation

• Color Palette: Earth tones, muted reds, and black plume detailing

• Mounting: Set under glass with a textured cream mat backing (visible staining at bottom edge)

Condition

Artwork remains vibrant and well-preserved. Some age-related foxing and light toning are visible in the background and mat area. The silver-painted frame shows appropriate wear with flaking and patina consistent with age. Rear cardboard backing is period but fragile, with visible pencil or chalk inventory numbers (“42” and “7”) and old paper residue.

Provenance

From a private U.S. collection of European military art. No publisher or artist marks are visible on the front; the piece appears to be an authentic 19th-century print rather than a modern reproduction.