Jacques-Louis David
Jacques-Louis David (1748–1825) was a French painter and a pivotal figure in the Neoclassical movement. Born in Paris, David studied under Joseph-Marie Vien and later at the Royal Academy of Painting and Sculpture, where he developed a style focused on classical themes and moral virtue. One of his early masterpieces, "The Oath of the Horatii" (1784), exemplified his commitment to the ideals of Roman antiquity and austere compositions.
David’s role extended beyond art as he was a fervent supporter of the French Revolution. He was involved politically, serving as a deputy in the National Convention and a member of the Committee of Public Safety. His painting "The Death of Marat" (1793) immortalized the assassination of revolutionary leader Jean-Paul Marat, reflecting his deep political engagement. After the Revolution, David became the official court painter to Napoleon Bonaparte, creating works like "Napoleon Crossing the Alps" (1801) and "The Coronation of Napoleon" (1807), which glorified Napoleon’s reign. Following Napoleon’s fall, David was exiled to Brussels, where he continued to influence art until his death. His legacy includes being a teacher at the École des Beaux-Arts, where he mentored future artists like Jean-Auguste-Dominique Ingres and Eugène Delacroix.
