Portret van Napoleon Bonaparte bij de slag van Arcole 1783 - 1821

This is François Aubertin’s portrait of Napoleon Bonaparte at the Battle of Arcole. He is depicted holding a flag, a symbol of unity and national pride, unfurled dramatically against the backdrop of battle, evoking classical images of victory. Consider how this motif harkens back to ancient Rome, where victorious generals carried standards as emblems of triumph, reborn in the Renaissance, and now in 19th-century France. The flag, throughout history, serves not only as a symbol of military victory but also taps into a deeper, more primal assertion of identity and power. Interestingly, the flag's movement suggests an irresistible forward momentum, mirroring the dynamic shifts in power across Europe. This symbolic gesture, laden with historical weight, connects to a collective memory of battles and conquests, engaging viewers on a subconscious level with themes of ambition, courage, and the relentless pursuit of glory. The gesture of holding a flag then becomes a powerful, cyclical symbol—continuously re-emerging throughout history to stir emotions and unite people under a common banner.