This iconic painting, which has come to symbolize Napoleon’s leadership as he conquered much of Europe, was created by his favor
ite artist, –. The manner in which Napoleon’s success in leading his army across the Alps is represented in symbolic terms as man’s ability to master nature is derived from – art. Whereas the military pose of a ruler atop a horse is borrowed from the equestrian monument tradition of – sculpture
David was made Napoleon´s favorite artist some time after declaring himself emperor. Napoleon commissioned David to develop this painting, with only a previous painting of the emperor and an old worn uniform. He went on to create the Imperial style form of painting which rapidly caught on and adapted by the rest of Europe. His artwork prospered during a time when artist ´evolved´ from a Neoclassical epoc and that would influence the artist and his paintings. So much so, that Equestrian sculptures or statues were made portraying great leaders and kings atop horses as in battle or in victory.
In the mirrored ball, the objects are varying sizes, which allows certain objects or subjects (ex: man) to appear closer and others farther away (window), creating depth and form.
