I did not know that 5 versions of this image of Napoeon are upon the earth. This is the original oil on canvas and once belonged to Spain but followed the exiled Joseph Bonaparte to America. It’s now hanging in the Chateau de Malmaison in France making this art work rather well travelled.
But beside it being an absolute stunner of a painting it has an amusing background in regards to its origin. Apparently Napoleon did not go ‘calm on a fiery steed’ but was upon a mule, lead across the Alps by a guide in fine weather. Ah the propaganda machine. He would not pose for the artist instead wanting to be depicted by character rather than stature. And I suppose the portrait does suggest power, determination and victory. Everything a conqueror would want to be remembered by.
And so this is the work of art I am loving today brought to my attention by reading about Romanticism and it’s rise after Napoleon’s defeat. Oh the rabbit hole! Hope you’re feeling blessed in your little part of the conquered world.
Cheers🐱
Kerri Smith Artist 