Study for a Bas-Relief for the Arc de Triomphe du Carrousel 18th-19th century

Editor: This is Merry-Joseph Blondel's "Study for a Bas-Relief for the Arc de Triomphe du Carrousel," material unknown and undated. It has a classical, almost Greco-Roman feel. What do you make of it? Curator: It's fascinating how Blondel uses this classical aesthetic to legitimize Napoleonic power. Consider the Arc de Triomphe itself, a Roman symbol appropriated to celebrate French military victories. How does this artistic choice contribute to the construction of national identity and the glorification of empire? Editor: So it's not just about beauty, but about power? Curator: Exactly. Art often serves as a tool for political and social messaging. By linking Napoleon to the legacy of Roman emperors, Blondel reinforces the idea of French dominance and imperial ambition. Editor: I never thought about it that way. It's so interesting to consider the layers of meaning embedded within this seemingly simple sketch. Curator: Precisely. Art is never created in a vacuum. Exploring those connections makes all the difference.