Billeting Village Near Neufchateau

William James Aylward, an American illustrator and official artist for the U.S. Army during World War I, captured detailed scenes of military life in Europe. Billeting Village Near Neufchateau reflects his precise, documentary approach, offering a visual record of the logistical and domestic aspects of wartime deployment.

This artwork portrays a quiet French village near Neufchâteau, used for billeting American troops. Aylward’s careful composition and muted palette emphasize the subdued atmosphere of everyday life behind the front lines. The scene conveys a sense of structure and routine, highlighting the role of local communities in supporting military operations during the war.

Artwork details

Artist: William James Aylward

Title: Billeting Village Near Neufchateau

Date: circa 1918

Style: American Illustration, Documentary Art

Medium: Originally watercolor or gouache

Subject: World War I village used for troop billeting

Features: Architectural detail, muted color tones, wartime setting
Dimensions: 40x60 cm / 16x24″