Elevations for Two Triumphal Arches in Honor of the Emperor Napoleon
Classification
architecture
Department
Smithsonian Collection
Museum
Smithsonian American Art Museum
Credit
Museum purchase through gift of various donors
Accession Number
1901-39-233
About this artwork
Research in Progress
Art Historical Context
Luigi Cagnola, a leading Italian neoclassical architect (1762–1833), created these *Elevations for Two Triumphal Arches in of the Emperor Napoleon* 1810. As architectural drawings classified within the Smithsonian American Art Museum's collection, they showcase precise elevation views—side profiles—of grand monumental structures designed to celebrate Napoleon's imperial triumphs. Cagnola's work reflects the era's fascination with ancient Roman architecture, revived in neoclassicism to symbolize power and eternity. During Napoleon's dominance over Europe, including much of Italy, triumphal arc...