Jacques-Louis David

In the film we watched in class, Simon Schama spoke about the Revolutionary artist Jacques-Louis David. His central statement was that although David's morales and actions may have been questionable, he was still a prolific and incredibly influential figure of the French Revolution. He had amazing capability for expression in his paintings, making him a great propogandist. David could convey any message he wanted, and this skill both got him in trouble and helped him out of it on multiple occasions. This is especially demonstrated in his famous painting Napoleon at the St. Bernard Pass 1801. The picture involves Napoleon, pictured two years after his rise to power. He is sitting atop a great white horse with his finger pointing forward and up. This image portrays one of power, grace, and hope. Napoleon's sureness and incredible gracefullness while balancing on his horse makes the viewer feel as if he is a great and powerful man who we can only hope will govern our lives. The ominous storm clouds in the background make it appear as if Napoleon himself is fighting back the darkness, a brave knight fighting for all of humanity. This painting must have singlehandedly convinced many people that Napoleon was the single person all of France should be entrusted to.