Napoleon 1895

Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec created this lithograph, Napoleon, depicting the French Emperor mounted on horseback, surrounded by his guard. Here we observe the iconography of power, immediately recognizable through Napoleon's distinct hat and stern gaze. The motif of the leader on horseback is ancient, echoing Roman emperors and medieval knights. In this print, the horse, traditionally a symbol of virility and command, connects Napoleon to a lineage of rulers who harnessed its power. Consider the horse's posture and color; it is not merely a beast of burden but a partner in projecting authority. Like the statue of Marcus Aurelius in Rome, where the emperor's control over the horse signifies his control over the empire. The collective memory of such images stirs deep within us, tapping into subconscious associations of strength, leadership, and dominance that have been culturally ingrained for centuries. The image of the leader on horseback resurfaces repeatedly throughout history, adapting to each era while retaining its primal appeal.