Lot no. 131
RARE CARD USED BY EMPEROR NAPOLEON I AT SAINTE-HÉLÈNE WHEN WRITING HIS MEMORIALS Engraved map entitled "Theatre of the war in Germany, Austria and Italy where are traced the Marches, Positions, Battles and Fights of the Grande Armée, commanded in person by H.M. EMPEROR NAPOLEON during the campaign of 1805 and those of the Armée d'Italie commanded by H. Exc. Le Maréchal Masséna" with in the upper corners two plans: "Plan of the Battle of AUSTERLITZ". "Surrender of the City of Ulm". It should be noted that the map is enhanced with watercolour and sometimes hatched in pencil on certain borders. Canvas lining with pull tab and engraved label of the Cabinet topographique de S.M. l'Empereur et Roi bearing the autograph inscription signed by General Gourgaud: "Vient de l'Empereur à Sainte-Hélène. 1818" and the following annotations: "Théâtre de la guerre en Allemagne et Italie. Paris Picquet Gourgaud"; ink stains and wear from use. 82 x 56 cm A rare engraved map used by the Emperor Napoleon I Commentary: Gaspard Gourgaud (1783-1852) A boisterous man, deeply attached to the Emperor and of great bravery, General Gourgaud was one of the most endearing companions of the deposed Emperor on St Helena. Napoleon dictated notes to him, particularly on artillery and the Russian campaign. This map was probably used to write Bertrand's account of the Battle of Austerlitz (offered for sale in 2021). The map was undoubtedly of great value to Gourgaud, who annotated it and for whom the 1805 campaign was the Emperor's finest.
See original version (French)
Pictures credits: Contact organization
Militaria and weapons
About the sale
Catalog
04/01/2025
Offered by Artcurial
01 42 99 20 02