Images de Napole ́on — un imperator en quête de le ́gitimite ́

Images should be released from the monopoly of art history and integrated into the study of history itself. For culture, in the strict sense of the term, is an essential aspect of political history, especially in a state as centralised as 18th- and 19th-century France. This is the context in which visual images of Napoleon should be explored. Under the Directory, he began shrewdly to exploit paintings and engravings in his first campaign to win over public opinion, rapidly achieving renown by putting a face to his name. The development and profusion of images under the Consulate and Empire reveal the way, or ways, in which Napoleon sought to present himself to contemporaries and posterity. They also illustrate his main objectives: the strengthening of his power and the consolidation of his dynasty. The number and variety of these images suggest that he was acutely aware of his lack of legitimacy. Napoleon himself realised just how much he resembled a 'colossus with feet of clay'. In order to base this colossus on firmer foundations he set to work all the means at his disposal, not least painting and sculpture

Archaeology · Art · Art history · Colossus computer · Context (archaeology · Empire · Humanities · Legitimacy · Painting · Political science · Politics · Sculpture · European Political History Analysis · Historical Art and Culture Studies · Historical Studies and Socio-cultural Analysis · History · Law

• Recent Articles on French History

  Jean‐pierre V M Herubel, Jean-Pierre V M Hérubel•French Historical Studies•2005

  Add to list