Art in the Classroom – May/June 2011
Napoleon in His Study, painted by Jacques-Louis David in 1812
Oil on canvas, 80.25 x 49.25 inches
Currently in The National Gallery of Art in Washington, DC
Jacques-Louis David
Born in 1748 in France, Jacques-Louis David studied painting in both France and Italy. He is best
known for his portraits and his involvement in the Neoclassical art movement.
While many painters during this time were still using a frivolous/frilly Rococo technique, David
was attracted to the styles of the past. In contrast to the elaborate works of his peers, David’s
paintings were more serious and focused. This new use of older methods was named
Neoclassicism.
The birth of Neoclassicism marks an important change in art. Artists were using their work to
reflect social and moral opinions of their time, as opposed to a neutral portrayal of a moment in
time. In David’s heyday, the American and French Revolutions were brewing. The average
citizens were beginning to question the power of their governments. While commoners strived
to support their families, French and English royalty were spending outrageous sums of money
on their homes and entertainment.
David painted scenes with an austere feeling to show support for the common man and
neglected virtues such as self-sacrifice, honesty, and loyalty. David was an active member of the
French Revolution, even voting for the execution of King Louis XVI.
David’s career fluctuated with the political changes. While he was celebrated during the French
Revolution, he was imprisoned in the years that followed. David’s career was revived by the
next major French leader, Napoleon Bonaparte. David painted numerous pictures of Napoleon,
showing support for the new leader and in turn, was appointed Napoleon’s official painter. Art
critics often dismiss David’s portraits of Napoleon and his reign as “propaganda” as a result of
his glorified images of the leader. This marked a big change for David, who previously rejected
this flattering style while illustrating the French Revolution.
Napoleon Crossing the Alps
This painting was a gift from the king of Spain to Napoleon as a thank you for defeating the
Austrians.
Napoleon didn’t make David’s job easy – he refused to pose for the painting! David used a bust
of Napoleon to reproduce the features of his face, and skethed Napoleon’s two main horses to
produce an accurate picture of his mount.
Suggested Questions and Discussion Topics:
1) David is famous for painting in a Neoclassical style. Can you name any other periods of
art?
2) Would this painting feel different if Napoleon were wearing something different? (i.e.
pajamas, fancier clothes…)
3) What would you name this painting?
4) I spy…red…yellow…green…orange (Let the students find these colors within the
painting).
5) What do you think Napoleon is feeling in this picture?
6) What are scenes that would reflect support for a revolution? What are scenes that
would reflect support for the monarchy?
7) Napoleon was very short – how does this painting hide this characteristic?
8) What are some adjectives that describe this painting?