Napoleon Bonaparte on Horseback War is Hell Store 

Ernest Meissonier created this painting of Napoleon Bonaparte on Horseback, as an oil on panel. Bonaparte’s power was built on both revolutionary ideals, and imperial ambition, during a period of significant social upheaval. Here we see a representation of masculine authority, with Bonaparte centered, high up on his steed. He is presented as stoic, alone with his thoughts, yet the land and sky seem to mirror his internal, and external state. The stormy skies reflect the turmoil of his time, yet also perhaps his own. The soldiers in the background give the sense of the grand armies who followed Bonaparte through Europe. Meissonier lived through a time of revolution and empire, one that shaped his artistic vision. What does it mean to paint this image? To re-cast this figure, at this time? Through this art, it may be possible to feel the tension between individual will, the power of the masses, and the shifting sands of history.