Vieren van Napoleons verjaardag op Sint Helena, 1815 Possibly 1815 - 1816

This satirical print by Johann Michael Voltz, likely created between 1815 and 1816, depicts Napoleon Bonaparte as a rat celebrating his birthday on the island of Saint Helena. The artwork is a caricature of the French Emperor, who had been exiled to the island after his defeat at the Battle of Waterloo. The print's title, "Vieren van Napoleons verjaardag op Sint Helena," translates to "Celebrating Napoleon's Birthday on Saint Helena," and the image is filled with symbolic rats representing Napoleon's supporters and even his military. The artwork's satirical nature is highlighted by the use of a hot air balloon, representing the French Empire's fallen ambitions, and the presence of a rat wearing a crown, a mocking reference to Napoleon's lost imperial power. "Vieren van Napoleons verjaardag op Sint Helena" is a valuable piece of historical caricature art that captures the political climate following Napoleon's defeat.