Featured Uniform identification on painting.

Trying to identify the origin of the uniform. The saber and boots has me thinking France. However the hat does not. The saying in the bottom left I have not been able to decipher. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

 

I'd think it's meant to depict a Revolutionary War soldier. But there may be some license taken as it appears to be a decorative painting. My usual question -- Would/could you post a photograph of the back including frame?

Debora

 

I just noticed that there's a French date and name in the bottom right hand corner. They may provide a clue.

Debora

 

The name is de Blay. Date August 6th. Year 1881?

 

Yes, that's what I read. Year 1888 but I could be wrong.

Debora

 

Could be a French man who fought for the US in our revolutionary war. It certainly looks a lot like a uniform from then, plus the fancy shirt.

 

Easy enough to confirm/not with a Google Image search.

Debora

 

Hmm, maybe artillery.

 

Hi Debora,
Once the painting is in my possession I can post a picture of the back. In reviewing the painting the paper on the back was slightly torn, which allowed me to discover that it is oil on board.

 

That was my initial thought.

 

Yes de blay, 6 aug. Maybe 1888 or 1898
And the frame is full of holes. You can better check it for woodworms