Henri-Joseph HESSE (1781-1849): Officer of the Dragoons of the Imperial Guard. Pen, ink and wash drawing, signed lower right, dated 1811. 70 x 50 cm. A palmettes wood and gilded stucco frame from the Empire period (accidents and missing pieces). A pupil of David and Jean-Baptiste Isabey, to whom he owed his perfect mastery of miniature and watercolour techniques. He exhibited at the Salons between 1808 and 1833, and was one of the favourite artists of the Duchess of Berry, of whom he painted several portraits. CNES expert: Laurent Mirouze.