Napolean in His Study

Artist Jacques Louis David 1748-1825

Jacques Louis David is recognized for his stark, linear paintings, many of his subjects were often portrayed as stern or serious (austere). His pieces were usually associated with moral messages or themes His art is usually connected with the French Revolution. The above art piece is a prime example of his style and period. Although, Napolean in His Study was after the French Revolution.  A time period when Napolean was serving as a mility and civic leader, in a sense this is a piece of propaganda art. For example, present day campaigns or  Presidents speeches circulate through the media, print and internet and sometimes in art (usually as a caricature ). Napolean’s publicity was in a form of art, such as this iconic image.

I chose this piece for all its subtle symbolism, notice the lion table decoration? this is often associated with great civilizations. Napolean’s military  qualities of strength and leadership are shown wearing his uniform, his medal (legion of honor) is pinned  on his uniform, the gold epaulettes on shown on his shoulders reminds  one of his military status. The clock shows 4:13, it is not clear what time of the day it is (morning or evening) when he is shown here working in his study for the people of France. The scroll on his desk has the letters C O D with a hint of the letter E, this is the Napolenic Code, which became the legal standards in law for France, many of these laws are still followed in France. (Law Giver) Napolean is grasping a gold-colored object, it is not clear what it is, possibly an official seal? They is a gold-handled sword, quite possibly a prop to symbolize his military achievements and power. A scroll lies on the floor, look closely it has the artists name and date on it, could it be another type of advertisement for the artist? A book lays on the floor as if gently tossed, it is a copy of Plutarch’s Lives. This book is a list of who’s who, such as past powerful generals.  The book is near Napolean’s feet, could it be a symbol that he is greater than the others before him? The fabric on the chair also resembles and upside down fleaur-de-lys, a type of lily that was associated with the French monarchy. Is this a message that France is no longer ruled by a monarch? The wrinkled carpet’s appearance is as if Napolean was interrupted and had scooted his chair away from the desk to stand. Was the message that he was tirelessly working into the late evening or early morning for the people of France. Lastly, his hair is a bit tousled as if he had been heavily  in thought and planning, quite possibly for France’s future?

Art and architecture during the 18th century was noticeably defined in the classical era. Music during this period was not as clearly defined. As the growing audience began to transform from aristocratic patrons (Baroque/Rococo) to middle class listeners music transitioned from a Polyphonic style to the  Homo-phonic texture.  This music was less complex than the Baroque’s “gallant style.” Composers grew  independent  from the aristocratic hold and began to share their music on the public platform, thus changing the overall sound to meet the new audiences listening style.

Source: http://www.nga.gov/kids/napoleon/nap3.htm