Portret van Joachim Murat 1800 - 1834

Ernst Karl Gottlieb Thelott created this portrait of Joachim Murat in print. Notice the symbols surrounding Murat's image: a crown rests atop the portrait, framed by a wreath of laurel. The crown, a timeless symbol of power and authority, reminds us of Murat's royal status, bestowed upon him by Napoleon as King of Naples. The laurel wreath, an ancient emblem of victory and honor, harkens back to the classical world, where it adorned triumphant emperors and celebrated athletes. Consider how the laurel wreath reappears throughout art history, from ancient Roman busts to Renaissance paintings, each time evoking a sense of triumph and prestige. These symbols are not merely decorative; they are powerful visual cues that tap into our collective memory, shaping our understanding and perception of the subject. In this way, the portrait not only captures Murat's likeness but also projects an aura of power, legitimacy, and historical significance.