Artwork

Napoleon Bonaparte

Napoleon Bonaparte, by Max Rosenthal, 1883
Napoleon Bonaparte, by Max Rosenthal, 1883

Napoleon Bonaparte is a print by Max Rosenthal. It dates from 1883 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

About this work

He worked in the late 1800s, when Americans loved stories of European leaders.

This painting shows Napoleon Bonaparte standing tall in a dark coat. His right hand is tucked inside his coat. Shadows on his face make him look serious.

Rosenthal often painted famous figures from history. He worked in the late 1800s, when Americans loved stories of European leaders. The style feels stiff compared to today’s portraits.

Look up Max Rosenthal (American, 1833–1918) to see more of his work.

Overview

Napoleon Bonaparte is a print created by American artist Max Rosenthal around 1883, currently part of The Cleveland Museum of Art's collection.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts Napoleon Bonaparte in a characteristic pose, standing upright in a dark coat with his right hand tucked in, conveying a sense of seriousness heightened by the shadows on his face.

Technique & Style

Rosenthal's style in this work is notable for its formality and stiffness, reflective of late 19th-century portraiture conventions.

History & Provenance

Created in the late 19th century, the print was part of a broader American fascination with European historical figures during that time. It is now housed at The Cleveland Museum of Art.

Context

Max Rosenthal, active in the late 1800s, was known for his portraits of famous historical figures, catering to the American public's interest in European leadership of the time.

Artist & collection

Artist

Max Rosenthal

Max Rosenthal (1833–1918) was an American artist.

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: Cleveland Museum of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.