The Coronation of Napoleon

Description: 

This painting by Jacques-Louis David depicts the infamous ceremony of Napoleon Bonaparte officially assuming the title of Napoleon I, Emperor of the French People. Jacques-Louis David painstakingly detailed all those in attendance at the coronation, with Napoleon’s brothers, sisters, mother, and ministers positioned throughout the scene.  

The focal point of the piece is Napoleon himself, standing at the point where all other figures in the painting face. Napoleon’s attire and regalia reflect the combination of ancient and new values that Napoleon championed; resting on Napoleon’s head is a laurel wreath akin to the civic or grass crown of the Roman Empire, the highest honors given to civilians and military officials respectively; in Napoleon’s hands is what he dubbed the “Crown of Charlemagne,” a crown that was destroyed during the French Revolution. These two pieces of regalia establish a direct link between the great conquerors and rulers of antiquity that Napoleon emulated in his conquests and rule.  

Another key detail is the posture and placement of Pope Pius VII, the figure seated directly to the right of Napoleon. Figuratively putting himself ahead of the church, Napoleon purposefully trampled on the tradition of powerful monarchs being crowned by the Pope, instead having the crown only exchanging control between himself and his wife during the coronation. Wielding only superficial and ceremonial power, Pope Pius VII can only look on and bless Napoleon’s coronation with dejected acceptance.

Associated Place(s)

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Timeline of Events Associated with The Coronation of Napoleon

The Coronation of Napoleon Bonaparte

2 Dec 1804

The official day that Napoleon Bonaparte transitioned from his title as First Consul of France to 'His Imperial Majesty,' Napoleon I, Emperor of the French People. Prior to his coronation and 'election' as emperor of France, Napoleon had only held military or civil titles in the First French Republic, which still placed him below or above others within the same hierarchy. By openly styling himself as a monarch, the emperor of the French people no less, Napoleon put himself above all others and made clear who commanded the French.

In addition to the obvious importance the coronation had, its timing betrays how crucial Napoleon himself considered its completion to be. The coronation occurred only a year into the Napoleonic Wars, which would continue to rage on in various military theaters for the next decade. Napoleon saw his ascension to emperorship, to spend invaluable time away from his military conquests, to be more valuable at the time.

Unfortunately for Napoleon I, his spectacular coronation would not continue on for his descendants, as the House of Bonaparte would only last for two more monarchs whose achievements remained far short of the founder of their dynasty.

The Coronation of Napoleon Bonaparte

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Artist: 

  • Jacques-Louis David