Lithograph by Chevalier Giacomelli Depicting the Battle of
Solferino
The Battle of Solferino, also known as The Battle of the Three
Emperors, is virtually unknown to Americans. The Austrian army,
led by Emperor Francis (Franz)-Joseph marched across northern
Italy where it was opposed by the French army under Napoleon III
and the Sardinian army led by Victor Emmanuel II. This battle
was a decisive engagement in the Austro-Sardinian War. The nationalist
struggle to unify Italy was the geo-political context for the
war. The nine hour battle resulted in tremendous loss of life
on both sides. The horror of seeing wounded and dying soldiers
being shot or bayoneted prompted Jean Henri Dunant, a witness
to the slaughter, to begin a campaign that would eventually lead
to the establishment of the Geneva Conventions and the founding
of the International Red Cross.
The lithograph of the battle scene was created by Chevalier
Giacomelli. The text and title are in German. The print shows
the position of the various troops and regiments as they were
arrayed on the battlefield. It was published by Lang & Lang
Lith., 117 Fulton St., N.Y. The piece measures 18.5" wide
x 11" high. There is a 1" tear on the left margin that
has been taped on the back, a small tear at the intersection of
the fold lines, a small tear on the right edge and some scattered
foxing. (Stock number 003prSolferino) $50.00
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