Alfred de DREUX (Paris, 1810 - 1860) Carabineers on horseback in an Algerian landscape Oil on canvas Signed 'alfred. D.D.' lower left A mounted carabineer's drummer in an Algerian landscape, oil on canvas, signed, by A. de Dreux 24.01 x 19.88 in. 61 x 50.5 cm From an early age, Alfred de Dreux was introduced to painting through the prestigious intermediary of Théodore Géricault, who had a close relationship with the de Dreux family through his friend Pierre-Joseph Dedreux-Dorcy, Alfred's uncle, whom he had met in Pierre-Narcisse Guérin's studio in 1810. The young man, whom Géricault portrayed on numerous occasions, was deeply influenced by the art of the man who was to become both his mentor and his spiritual father in painting. After Géricault's tragic death in 1824, Alfred de Dreux joined Léon Cogniet's studio, but it was the influence of the master of The Raft of the Medusa that de Dreux would retain throughout his career. Our painting is a rare early work by the artist, most likely produced in the 1830s to commission an equestrian portrait of a soldier who had taken part in the conquest of Algeria. We are seduced by the fluid, delicate brushstrokes that contrast with the furious, impasto brushwork of his mature period. The work is strikingly inspired by the English school and, more generally, the Gericaldian Romantic movement. The shades of blue and mauve in the horse's coat are marvellous, as is the treatment of the skies, so quickly brushed. The fog of dust generated by the horse's hoof movements, revealing the silhouettes of the riders in the background, is admirably rendered on the canvas by the artist who, despite his young age, is already demonstrating exceptional virtuosity. We would like to thank Maxence Miglioretti for his help in writing this note. The auction price includes VAT. VAT at the reduced rate of 5.5% applies to the hammer price and the sales commission. This VAT is recoverable for French professionals. It is refundable for a buyer from outside the EU on presentation of proof of export from the EU or for a professional buyer providing proof of an intra-Community VAT number and a document proving delivery in the Member State. The hammer price will be VAT included. 5.5% VAT will be added to the hammer price and buyer's premium. Upon request, this VAT can be refunded to the purchaser on presentation of written proof of exportation outside the EU or to the EU purchaser who will submit his intracommunity VAT number and a proof of shipment of his purchase to his EU country home address. Alfred de DREUX (Paris, 1810 - 1860) 61 x 50.5 cm