after François Bonneville (1755-1794)

Portrait of François Hanriot

Watercolor and gouache

Late 18th or early 19th century

2 x 2 1/2 in. 

Contemporary or near-contemporary brass frame. 

A well-executed portrait of Sans-culotte leader François Hanriot (1759-1794), after an engraving by François Bonneville. He is seen in a dark blue coat with gold epaulettes, and a blue bicorn hat with a large feather plume and trimmed in gold.

At the time the original engraving was created, Hanriot was chef de la section des sans-culottes, essentially the captain of a battalion. 

Hanriot (1759-1794) lived a normal life working odd jobs until 1792, when he became known for his anti-aristocratic outlook, routinely speaking against the Marquis de Lafayette and orating for the Sans-culottes, the radical lower class of the French Revolution. He played a vital role in the Insurrection of 31 May - 2 June 1793, when the Paris Commune promoted him to commandant-general of the Parisian National Guard. By ordering troops and eventually marching them to the National Palace, Hanriot's role helped lead to the fall of the Girondins. 

When the Reign of Terror was nearing its end in 1794, Hanriot continued to support Robespierre and his ideals. On 27 July 1794, a coup against Robespierre was instigated, where not only he, but also Hanriot and his other allies, were arrested. They were declared outlaws and condemned to death. Hanriot was executed by guillotine alongside Robespierre on 28 July 1794. 

[Art, Fine Art, Portrait Miniature, Paintings, 19th Century, French Revolution, France]