The Coronation of Napoleon

Jacques-Louis David

The Coronation of Napoleon

The Coronation of Napoleon, created by Jacques-Louis David, is an iconic painting of the Neoclassical period. It depicts the coronation ceremony of Napoleon Bonaparte as Emperor of the French in 1804. The artwork showcases the grandeur and spectacle of the event, with Napoleon and his wife, Josephine, positioned at the center of the composition. The painting reflects the Neoclassical style through its meticulous attention to detail, idealized figures, and classical references. It symbolizes Napoleon's desire to associate himself with the grandeur of ancient rulers and showcases the Neoclassical movement's emphasis on order, harmony, and the revival of classical aesthetics.