Mathieu Ignace Van Brée (1773-1839) studied at the Academy in Antwerp, and in his early years probably painted landscapes and portraits. Following the closure of the academy in 1794, he studied in Paris with François André Vincent. In 1797 he won second prize in the Prix de Rome with his Death of Cato (untraced). Shortly afterwards he returned to Antwerp, becoming a teacher at the re-opened Academy in 1804. From 1801 he undertook some important commissions, for example The Arrival of the First Consul Napoleon Bonaparte at Antwerp, 18 June 1803, painted for Josephine de Beauharnais. During the period of French rule he executed historical subjects and portraits in a stark neo-classical style owing much to both David and Vincent. He served as a curator at the Museum of Fine Arts, Antwerp.

After Napoleon’s deposition, his Governor in Antwerp, General Carnot, published on 17 April 1814 a proclamation to his troops declaring that the French nation had decided in favour of the restoration of the Bourbons. On the following day another proclamation ordered the garrison to wear the white cockade. On 1 May Carnot announced to the inhabitants of Antwerp the end of his occupation. The allied troops entered the city on 5 May and were received in the Place de Meir by the Major, Vermoelen, who presented to the allied generals the keys to the city.

Bree painting depicts a square at Antwerp, surrounded by houses, with the French troops on one side and Allies on the other, the French General is addressing the municipal officers assembled in the foreground.