Het eerste wapenfeit van Jacques Grivet, 1795 1818 - 1819

Horace Vernet created this print, “The First Exploit of Jacques Grivet,” in 1795, a time of revolution and upheaval in France. Born in the twilight of the French Revolution, Vernet grew up amidst shifting political landscapes. This work offers insight into the lives of soldiers, especially during the era of the French Revolutionary Wars. Soldiers are shown here bandaging the injured arm of Jacques Grivet, who reclines under a tree. Meanwhile women and children rest by the tree, and men stand watch in the background. What we see here is war, but also a human story of camaraderie and resilience amid conflict. Though Vernet’s work often glorified military exploits, there’s also an underlying emotional aspect to his images. “The First Exploit of Jacques Grivet” captures the personal experiences of those caught in broader historical currents. It’s a reminder of war’s profound impact on individual lives and communities, and how societal disruptions affect a collective human experience.