HENRI CHARTIER (1859-1924) "Bonaparte in... - Lot 121 - Osenat

HENRI CHARTIER (1859-1924) "Bonaparte in Egypt" Watercolor drawing, signed lower left, dated "1899" and dedicated "To Commander MARCHAND" (slightly insolated, small tear) 29 x 23 cm. Framed under glass. A.B.E. Jean-Baptiste Marchand (1863-1934) Enlisted in 1883 in the marine infantry, second lieutenant in 1887, he took part in military expeditions in West Africa. Back in France in 1895, Captain Marchand was enthusiastic about an exploration project that would allow France to join the Atlantic Ocean to the Indian Ocean through Africa. The mission left Loango in October 1896 and, after a journey of nearly two years during which it had to overcome unprecedented difficulties, reached Fachoda on the Upper Nile, where it settled and strengthened itself (July 10, 1898). Lord Kitchener, victorious over the Dervishes, also reached Fachoda on 18 September and demanded that the French evacuate the post. After a first refusal and in front of the English ultimatum, the French government had to give in. Major Marchand evacuated Fachoda (November 7, 1898) and returned to France, where he was promoted to battalion commander, then to lieutenant-colonel.