Korporaal-tamboer in gesprek met schenker van het wijwater tijdens militaire begrafenis 1834

This print was made by Nicolas Toussaint Charlet, in France. Here, we see a corporal-drummer in conversation with the almsgiver during a military funeral. It offers a glimpse into the social fabric of early 19th-century France. The scene is set against the backdrop of a military funeral, highlighting the intersection of civic duty, religious practice, and social hierarchy. Charlet’s work invites us to reflect on the role of the military in French society and the relationship between the church, the state, and everyday citizens. To understand this print fully, it would be useful to research the social and political context in which it was made. What was the role of the military in French society at the time? What were the prevailing attitudes toward religion and charity? By answering these questions, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the historical significance of this print.