Most equestrian portraits were associated with royal personage. Desiring a more prestigious depiction, Napoleon requested an equestrian scene. He actually followed his troops four days later while traveling on a donkey. Despite the heroic scene shown, Napoleon did not in reality lead his troops through the Alps. The effect: a demonstration of Napoleon as a wielder of power and holder of strategic judgement with a calm demeanor. Napoleon wanted an equestrian portrait that as he put it was “calme sur un cheval fougueux” or calm on a fiery horse.David faithfully preformed the task. Although he refused to sit for his portrait he did give David careful instructions how he wished to be depicted. When creating the composition for his commission, Napoleon understood the importance of imagery and how to display an effective propagandist piece.
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