It’s easy to stand in awe of Jacques-Louis David’s vast paintings and miss some of the tiny details that make them extraordinary. That’s why the Musée du Louvre has partnered with Smartify to bring those aspects to life through an innovative digital companion.

A digital companion for a once-in-a-generation exhibition

The Musée du Louvre is commemorating the bicentenary of David’s death with a major exhibition of works by one of France’s most influential artists.

This once-in-a-generation celebration combines paintings from the Louvre’s collection with rare loans. It’s the first exhibition devoted to David to be held at the museum since 1989.

Smartify’s digital guide to the exhibition will be available on iOS, Android and web. It offers visitors a new way to explore and appreciate David’s iconic works.

Getting closer to ‘The Coronation of Napoleon’

At the heart of the Louvre’s collaboration with Smartify is an innovative AR experience centred on David’s monumental masterpiece, ‘The Coronation of Napoleon’.

At nearly 10 metres wide and six metres high, this painting is breathtaking in scale. It’s so big that the Mona Lisa would fit inside it 144 times over! However, the sheer size of the canvas can make it tricky to take in all the intricate details.

Using our advanced object recognition technology, visitors are able to scan the painting and discover interactive hotspots and insights. Want to find Napoleon’s mother in the crowded scene? Curious about the significance of the occasion? Wondering what all the coronation regalia is for? Our technology guides you through these details and more at your own pace. Information is available in both French and English.

This digital experience requires no extra equipment or downloads. You simply point your phone at the painting to start exploring.

Building on our groundbreaking digital projects

This partnership with the Louvre continues our mission to make art and culture more accessible through the use of thoughtful technology.

We’ve created innovative AR experiences for major cultural institutions worldwide. Highlights include bringing the magnificent King’s Staircase at Hampton Court Palace to life and providing a new way to experience the stunning dome ceiling at Dresden’s Frauenkirche through immersive soundscapes.

Visit the exhibition

The Jacques-Louis David exhibition runs at the Musée du Louvre in Paris until January 26.

Download the Smartify app before your visit or access our web guide to make the most of your experience.

Want to create immersive AR experiences for your own organisation? Talk to us.