6000x3773 Jacques Louis David, The Coronation O... «Chrome»

Jacques-Louis David included a self-portrait in the gallery as a witness to the event, shown sketching the scene.

Napoleon’s mother, Maria Letizia Ramolino , is prominently seated in the center background even though she did not actually attend the ceremony.

Pope Pius VII is depicted raising his hand in blessing at Napoleon's request, though early sketches showed him with his hands down.

Commissioned by Napoleon, the work served as a massive propaganda tool to solidify his legitimacy. David famously altered several details to suit the Emperor's image:

Napoleon is positioned on stairs to appear taller than those around him, including the Pope.