Napoléons Battle at Mont Saint Jean 1815

Editor: Here we have a bronze medal, "Napoleon's Battle at Mont Saint Jean," created under the direction of Dominique Vivant Denon. The shiny bronze is really striking. What do you make of it? Curator: I see a fascinating example of how industrial processes shaped artistic production. Consider the labor involved in mining, smelting, and die-striking such a commemorative object. How does the mass production affect our understanding of Napoleon's image? Editor: That's a good point! I was so focused on the imagery, but the means of creating and distributing these medals clearly helped to shape the public perception of Napoleon. Curator: Precisely! It's not just about high art, but the materiality and consumption of power. Editor: I'll never look at a medal the same way. Thanks!