Nicholas Guy Antoine Brenet
Nicholas Guy Antoine Brenet was an artist active across a vast period, documented between 1700 and 1815, known primarily for his output in metalworks. Ten works attributed to Brenet are represented in institutional collections, offering insight into the artist’s engagement with contemporary European history and political events.
The documented metalworks focus heavily on themes related to the early Napoleonic era, particularly the years spanning 1798 through 1803. This corpus suggests the artist or workshop specialized in commemorative pieces, likely medals or relief plaques, marking significant military victories and civil achievements. Notable examples from this period include Conquest of Egypt Completed (1798) and Conquest of Lower Egypt (1798), documenting the Egyptian campaign.
Other works address specific governmental initiatives and prominent figures, such as Death of General Desaix (1800), Establishment of Schools of Pharmacy (1803), and Bonaparte's Protecting Fortune (1803). The verifiable output of Nicholas Guy Antoine Brenet prints and reliefs demonstrates a sustained focus on commemorating French military and civic successes.
Brenet’s historical metalworks are held in major American collections, including the Metropolitan Museum of Art. These museum-quality pieces are frequently studied for their documentation of early nineteenth-century political iconography, providing sources for high-quality prints.