Why did the painter Meissonier place Napoleon at the front and center of his work of art?
1 answer
Meissonier was a great admirer of Napoleon and wanted to portray him as the central figure in his artwork as a way of showing his respect and reverence for the French leader. Napoleon was also a highly influential and iconic figure in French history, so by placing him at the front and center of the painting, Meissonier was emphasizing his importance and impact on the events depicted in the artwork. Additionally, by highlighting Napoleon in this way, Meissonier was able to draw attention to the power, authority, and leadership qualities associated with the Emperor.