Emperor Napoléon I (1769-1821) Possibly 1810

Editor: This is a cast medal of Emperor Napoléon I by Bertrand Andrieu, and it's at the Harvard Art Museums. I'm struck by how intimate it feels despite depicting such a powerful figure. What do you see in this piece? Curator: I see a careful dance between power and vulnerability. The profile is strong, but the scale invites contemplation, not intimidation. It's like catching Napoleon in a quiet moment of reflection, don't you think? Editor: That’s insightful! I was so focused on the grand historical context, I missed that intimacy. Curator: Sometimes, the most powerful statements are whispered, not shouted. Thanks for sharing your perspective.