Two Great Historical Leaders and Their Legacies in Art

An interview with Susan Jaques

Catherine the Great, Empress of Russia and Napoleon I, Emperor of the French were both unique, powerful, influential and fascinating individuals that through their force and ambition, created empires with long-lasting world impacts. One of the key aspects for both historians and art scholars is the profound involvement of both leaders in the importance of art as a symbol of knowledge, power, success, and enrichment both materially and spiritually. The plundering of art objects, particularly those of great value was not new to the history of the conquerors. It was demonstrated by Alexander the Great and during the Roman, Spanish and Portuguese empires during their conquests. However, the plunder of art by Napoleon Bonaparte and acquisition of art by Catherine the Great was used stragetically to achieve both national and personal goals that would transcend each of these leaders’ reigns.