The Emperor Napoleon in His Study at the Tuileries

Jacques-Louis David painted this portrait in 1812, at the height of Napoleon's power. The Emperor stands in his study at 4:13 AM (the clock shows the time), having worked through the night on the Code Napoléon, his legal reforms visible on the desk.

Every detail is symbolic. The candles have burned low, showing his tireless dedication. His hand rests in his waistcoat in his characteristic pose. The sword and military hat remind us of his conquests, but the emphasis is on Napoleon as lawgiver and administrator.

David, once a radical painter, became Napoleon's court artist. This is one of the most famous imperial portraits and now hangs at the National Gallery of Art.