This is an evocative and finely rendered Antique Old 19th c. French Soldier Military Battle Oil Painting on Wood Board, after 19th c. French Military genre painter, Alexandre Bloch (1860 - 1919.) This painting is after a known oil painting by Bloch, that was titled: "A Street Skirmish," and dated to 1893, which was previously sold at auction in Europe. This piece depicts several embattled French soldiers, holed up in an old Catholic church. Two riflemen keep watch along the side of the building, while several wounded or dead men can be seen laying in the snow, with their weapons nearby. In the center of the scene, a Catholic priest escorts a brave wounded soldier out of the smoldering building. In the soldier's left hand, he clutches the French flag in patriotic perseverance. Signed: "Bloch" in the lower right corner. Additionally, an old, yellowed auction label on the verso reads: "Le drapeau. d'ap. A. Bloch." D'ap. is shorthand for d'apres, which means after in English. Approximately 8 5/8 x 10 5/8 inches. Good condition for over a century of age, with some light scuffing and edge wear to the painted wood surface (please see photos.) Acquired from an old collection in Los Angeles County, California. If you like what you see, I encourage you to make an Offer. Please check out my other listings for more wonderful and unique artworks!

About Alexandre Bloch: