Napoleon III at the Battle of Solferino

Ernest Meissonier depicted a more recent conflict in this painting of Napoleon III at Solferino. The Battle of Solferino, fought on June 24, 1859, was the decisive engagement of the Second Italian War of Independence. French and Sardinian forces defeated the Austrian army, helping to unify Italy. The battle's carnage also inspired Henri Dunant to found the Red Cross.

Meissonier accompanied Napoleon III's army as an official artist, witnessing the campaign firsthand. This direct experience gave his military paintings an authenticity that distinguished them from studio recreations. He captured the chaos and movement of battle while maintaining the precise detail for which he was famous.

The painting resides at the Château de Compiègne, the imperial residence Napoleon III used as a hunting lodge and retreat. Meissonier received major commissions from the Emperor throughout the Second Empire, documenting contemporary events alongside his Napoleonic histories.