Home > Arts > Artists > C > George Cruikshank
Napoleon Bonaparte watching the Fire of Moscow, 1812
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Mary Evans Picture Library
Napoleon Bonaparte watching the Fire of Moscow, 1812
Napoleon Bonaparte watching the Fire of Moscow after the Battle of Borodino, 1812. Handcoloured copperplate engraving by George Cruikshank from The Life of Napoleon a Hudibrastic Poem by Doctor Syntax, T. Tegg, London, 1815
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 23167014
© Florilegius/Mary Evans
Arson Bonaparte Borodino Conflagration Cruikshank Doctor Hudibrastic Moscow Napoleon Poem Syntax Rostopchin
FEATURES IN THESE COLLECTIONS
> Arts
> Artists
> C
> George Cruikshank
> Europe
> United Kingdom
> England
> London
> Related Images
> Historic
> Battles
> Related Images
> Mary Evans Prints Online
> New Images August 2021
EDITORS COMMENTS
Napoleon Bonaparte, the legendary Emperor of the French, gazes in disbelief at the smoldering ruins of Moscow in this handcoloured copperplate engraving by George Cruikshank. The image, taken from 'The Life of Napoleon a Hudibrastic Poem' by Doctor Syntax, published in London in 1815, captures a pivotal moment in the Russian Campaign of 1812. Following the brutal Battle of Borodino on September 7, 1812, Napoleon's Grand Army had marched on Moscow, expecting a triumphant entry into the city. However, the Russians, under the orders of General Mikhail Kutuzov, had evacuated the city and set it ablaze, leaving the invading forces to face an arson-ravaged landscape. The Fire of Moscow, as it came to be known, was a devastating conflagration that consumed the city for several days. Napoleon, who is depicted in the engraving with a worried expression and a hand shielding his eyes from the smoke and flames, was left to contemplate the consequences of his ill-fated campaign. The image is a poignant caricature of Napoleon's disappointment and frustration, as well as a testament to the destructive power of war. The handcoloured copperplate engraving technique adds depth and richness to the image, making it a striking visual representation of this pivotal moment in history.
MADE IN THE UK
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Basket.
