A detailed lithograph by Denis-Auguste-Marie Raffet depicting a challenging river crossing with horses, riders, and a carriage.

Denis-Auguste-Marie Raffet was a French draughtsman and lithographer known for his military subjects and depictions of the Napoleonic era. This work, Bouzeo Passage, captures a difficult river crossing, a common theme in the military campaigns of the nineteenth century. The composition focuses on the struggle of horses and riders navigating a steep, uneven bank, with a carriage positioned to the left. The artist employs a monochromatic palette, using the tonal range of lithography to suggest the atmospheric conditions of a damp, overcast day.

Raffet studied under Nicolas-Toussaint Charlet and later at the École des Beaux-Arts. His technical proficiency with the lithographic stone allowed him to render movement and texture with precision. In this scene, the figures are arranged in a diagonal line, guiding the viewer's eye across the terrain. The horses are depicted in various states of exertion, their forms rendered with quick, descriptive marks. The background remains sparse, keeping the focus on the immediate physical effort of the crossing. The work reflects the interest of the period in documenting the realities of travel and military logistics, moving away from purely heroic depictions toward a more observational approach.

The print demonstrates the artist's ability to manage complex groups of figures within a single frame. The contrast between the heavy carriage and the lighter cavalry horses creates a sense of narrative tension. By focusing on the mechanics of the passage, Raffet provides a glimpse into the logistical challenges faced by travellers and soldiers during this era. The work remains a clear example of his contribution to French graphic art, showing his skill in capturing both human and animal subjects in motion.