This is one of innumerable small bust-length portraits of Napoleon looking to his left painted by Isabey and his studio. They were produced to a similar pattern, the head being adjusted slightly to take account of changes in Napoleon's appearance as he grew older, while the uniform and orders might be altered according to individual circumstances. Here he is shown wearing the uniform of the Chasseurs à cheval, the ribbon and cross of the Legion of Honour, the star of the Iron Crown and the badge of the Grand eagle of the Legion of Honour. The miniature has a frame of green enamel over silver with bees and an eagle (both Napoleonic symbols) at the corners and top.
c. 1805-10
Watercolour on ivory
3.6 x 2.6cm
M211
Images and text © Wallace Collection, 2017
Where you'll find this
The Wallace Collection
Permanent collection