Uniformes

A suite of 13 original copperplate etchings, on 7 single sheets, for "La France Militaire". Overall size ca. 270 x 180 mm. With two impressions on each of the first 6 prints, measuring ca. 90 x 110 mm each. Plus one single-image print, size ca. 110 X 155 mm. Good impressions with ample margins all-round. In overall good condition (margins foxed & soiled to various degrees, hardly affecting images, save one). - - First edition. Martinet's and Bullura's signatures are on the metal, succeeded by "del." implying this is the artist from whose drawing the engraving or etching was made. Various craftsmen signatures, succeeded by "sculp." meaning "carved", implying he who has drawn on the metal. The prints, involving both etching and engraving, depict various scenes of uniformed soldiers and officers. Represented are Grenadiers à pied; Géneral et Chevau léger Bavarois; Hussards volontaires, Gendarmerie Nationale; and Russian Grenadiers, Dragons, Fusiliers, and Carabiniers. Furthermore included views of military life and at least one battle scene. The accompanying general views of places and sites are all identified by name and location. An impressive visual representation of the military and landscapes of the Premier Empire (1805-1815). Preserved in acid-free, pH-balanced Renaissance archival paper. Scarce.