Simon Meister Coblentz 1796 - 1844 Cologne

The canvas has a firm relining. The paint surface is generally sound although somewhat retouched. Inspection under UV light reveals scattered retouchings throughout, in particular to the horse's coat and to what appears to be a restored undulating scratch along the centre of the painting. Offered in a carved and gilt wood frame in fair condition with some minor paint losses.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

Simon Meister was a pupil of Horace Vernet in Paris between 1821 and 1825, and whose style is clearly reminiscent in this fine equestrian portrait painted the year after he left Vernet's studio. Meister was to complete several full length equestrian portraits of Napoleon, for example in the Städtisches Museum, Simeonstift. The great popularity of images of the Emperor even during the Bourbon restoration provided a very ready market for such images.

Napoleon's stallion Marengo, was named after the great defeat of the Austrian army by the Napoleonic forces in 1800. Wounded eight times in battle, he also carried Napoleon into the battles of Austerlitz, Jena, Wagram and finally at Waterloo.