Napoleon, De Celles en Duterage aan de schandpaal, 1813 1813

This hand-colored engraving from 1813 depicts Napoleon and two of his generals being mocked by a crowd. Created anonymously in the Netherlands, it offers a glimpse into the social and political climate during Napoleon's decline. Here, the artist uses satire to undermine Napoleon's authority. The figures on the platform are labeled, and the jeering crowd pelts them with vegetables and other objects of ridicule. The act of public humiliation challenges the image of Napoleon as an invincible leader. The Dutch, having been under French rule, likely used such imagery to express their resentment and celebrate the shifting tides of power. Analyzing such works involves delving into the history of Dutch-French relations, exploring the role of popular imagery in shaping public opinion, and researching the visual vocabulary of political satire during the period. By understanding the social and institutional context, we can better grasp the potent messages embedded within this seemingly simple image.