1830s Broadside Celebrating Revolution, Liberty, and National Self-Determination.
Fascinating hand-colored broadside contrasting the revolutions in France with those of the rest of the world.
The present example bears the imprint of C. Pain and states that it is the "Troisieme Edition" (third edition). This is the earliest version we have seen. As noted below, all editions are very rare.
At the top is an inset full-length portrait of George Washington, who, along with Simon Bolivar, both died victorious, according to a caption under the portrait. That inset is flanked on both sides with the flags of independent European states (on the left) and the flags of independent American states (on the right). Below the portrait of Washington is an explanation of the revolutions in Central and North America and below that an explanation of the revolutions in South America.
On the left side are an explanation of the French Revolution, its various stages (there were 9 of them apparently), and the victories and defeats of French armies from 1768 to 1832. On the right side are explanations of nine non-French revolutions in Europe.
Interestingly, the authors have chosen the Polish Bar Confederation of 1768-1772 as the jumping-off point for the Age of Revolutions, as opposed to the American War of Independence, which is more often (at least in the United States) given that honor.
The upper portion features vibrant depictions of national flags, symbolizing the birth of new republics and states. The flags of the United States, France, Haiti, and other nations are meticulously hand-colored, reflecting the diversity and shared goals of the revolutionary movements. The juxtaposition of European and American emblems underscores the interconnectedness of these struggles for liberty and equality.
This broadside functions as both a visual and textual chronicle, designed to educate and inspire. It celebrates the achievements of revolutionary leaders and the resilience of oppressed peoples, presenting a comparative view of the revolutionary fervor that reshaped the political landscapes of Europe and the Americas. Its hand-colored elements, detailed narratives, and symbolic motifs make it a compelling artifact of 19th-century historical interpretation and nationalist sentiment.
Rarity
The broadside is very rare.
This is the second example we have offered in over 30 years.
States
We locate several states of the broadside, all quite rare:
According to OCLC, Indiana University holds an example of the 1832 issue.
We previously offered an example of the broadside was published by C. Pain et Nourtier at Rue Pavee-Saint-Andre-Des-Artes, no. 17.
A "fourth edition" is recorded in the 1834 Bibliographie de la France, suggesting a date of publication of 1833.