Friday, May 3, 2013

Portrait of Madame Mère (1802)


By François Gérard, this is Portrait of Madame Mère - the mother of Napoleon. A significant influence in Napoleon's life, his mother, Maria-Letizia Ramolino Bonaparte, was his unfailing supporter but never shrank from speaking truth to his power. They maintained a close relationship through all the turmoil of Napoleon's years of struggle. As Emperor, Napoleon gave his mother the title of “Son Altesse Impériale, Madame Mère de l'Empereur” (Her Imperial Highness, Mother of the Emperor).  

More about the woman, and about this painting, are here.

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