Death of Marat- Jacques-Louis David, 1793

The French Revolutionary leader as the slain Christ. Snowy-white linen and gaping wounds, the painting uses all the techniques of religious iconography to portray Marat as a martyr to the great cause.

Napoleon Crossing the Alps at Grand-Saint-Bernard, 1801- David

David was a fervent supporter of the French Revolution and its principal image-maker. Here, Napoeon in presented on campaign in typically heroic terms.

David is generally categorised as a "Neo-classicist" painter. There was obviously something in the air during this period, a harking back to classical Roman Republican models in Art, Law, Warfare and Government.

Napoleon deliberately emulated the ancient Roman military machine by issuing his regiments with Eagles as battle-standards.

The Emperor Napoleon in his Study at the Tuileriries, 1811-12- David

Coronation of Napoleon & Josephine as Emperor and Empress of France, 1806- David

Note that Napoleon has taken the crown from the hands of the Pope and is crowning himself and his wife.

From Neo-Roman Republic to Neo-Roman Empire with a single bound.