Pluto geeft Napoleon instructies 1808

"Pluto gives Napoleon instructions" (1808) is a satirical etching by Teodoro Matteini, depicting a meeting between Pluto, the Roman God of the Underworld, and Napoleon Bonaparte. Pluto, seated on a throne, is giving instructions to Napoleon, who stands before him. The work is an example of the Neoclassical style and is a commentary on Napoleon's political ambitions. The image is set in a landscape with an army in the background, suggesting that Napoleon is in a hurry to conquer more land. Matteini uses the meeting between Napoleon and Pluto to depict the Emperor's ambition and arrogance, and to suggest the ultimate consequences of these traits. The artwork is a satirical interpretation of historical events.