Jacques-Louis David (1748-1825)
The Coronation of the Emperor Napoleon I and the Crowning of the Empress Joséphine in Notre-Dame Cathedral on December 2, 1804 (detail), 1806 -1807 - Oil on canvas. H. 621 ; l. 979 cm - Paris, musée du Louvre, département des Peintures - © Photo Rmn - GP (musée du Louvre) ...
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Jacques-Louis David (1748-1825)
The Coronation of the Emperor Napoleon I and the Crowning of the Empress Joséphine in Notre-Dame Cathedral on December 2, 1804 (detail), 1806 -1807 - Oil on canvas. H. 621 ; l. 979 cm - Paris, musée du Louvre, département des Peintures - © Photo Rmn - GP (musée du Louvre) / H. Lewandowski
Jacques Louis David was commissioned by Napoleon I to paint this huge canvas which depicts the splendor of the emperor's Coronation while conveying its political and symbolic message. The painter himself was present at the ceremony, and once back in his studio portrayed the colorful congregation with realism, combining accuracy with artistry while also complying with the Emperor's instructions. He thus met the challenge of producing a monumental work that would glorify the event and occupy a unique place in the history of painting.
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