3-034-880 - The Print Collector/Heritage Images

Christmas Eve at the Outposts, Paris, 1871. '...Félix Regamey's characteristic Illustration of Reveillon - [scene during the Siege of Paris, with extracts from his diary:]..."The army has gone into winter quarters; ...Warmth and gaiety return, and we shall be able to have a Reveillon to-night. New comers from Paris, who give us the details and the result of the last battle (of which we had only seen one corner - our own), are in possession of divers bottles and viands which they are willing to sacrifice on the altar of la patrie. This contribution forms the basis of the feast, and everyone is enjoined to add thereunto as much as he can. The traditional tree - a poor palm, frozen and cracking in the bark - has been brought from the ravaged hothouses of the country mansion we occupy...The candles are lit, and blankets fastened to the windows to prevent the enemy aiming at the light; the punch is ready; one or two precious bottles of champagne seem expectant in their silver collars; the Commandant has made his round without appearing at all displeased at the harangue of our cantinière - Monsieur, c'est servi; Vive la France!".' From "Illustrated London News", 1871.