Beautiful, detailed steel engraving from the picture by F.W. (Frances William) Topham.
Here we see a Zouave* telling a tale to the white-capped girls of Brittany. What story can he be telling them? Perhaps he is pouring into their astonished ears a history of his exploits before the Redan, or at Solferino of later date. Whatever the narrative might be, it has their eager attention, with that of the old man seated at the table, and even of the children, who have stopped to listen, and look on with wondering eyes.
*Zouave: The title given to certain infantry regiments in the French army, normally serving in French North Africa between 1831 and 1962.
Printed on heavyweight ivory/cream stock. Reverse side is blank.
Title (printed below image): The Zouave's Story
Publication: The Art Journal
Publication Year: 1865
Publisher: London: Virtue & Co., Ltd.
Approximate Page Size (in inches): 7.5 x 9
Approximate Image Size (in inches): 7.75 x 9
Condition: Excellent.
Library blind stamp* in margin goes partially into image area, but does not detract from the beauty of this print.
*blind stamp: A colorless impression that is embossed on paper.
