The Standard-Bearer
1857
Ernest Meissonier was absolutely obsessed with historical accuracy, often buying antique armor and weapons just to get the metal reflections perfectly right. In this 1857 piece, a young standard-bearer from the 17th century stands casually in gleaming plate armor and vibrant red hose, holding a large flag against a dramatic dark backdrop. Meissonier was actually one of the most famous and highest-paid artists of 19th-century France, famous for his tiny, incredibly detailed brushstrokes that made his historical scenes look almost like high-resolution photographs long before cameras existed.
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