Author(s): Philippe Garcia

History

A timeless symbol of power and ambition, Napoleon Bonaparte (1769-1821) spent decades expanding France's empire, enjoying magnificent success and suffering crushing defeats. Featuring over 400 never-before-seen objects, The Private Life of Napoleon allows a glimpse into the inner world of the French emperor. Over the course of 24 years, collector Bruno Ledoux amassed a remarkable range of manuscripts, books, gold jewelry, porcelains, miniatures, arms and even historic souvenirs, all created in honour of Napoleon and the French empire. The collection includes diplomatic gifts, masterpieces crafted by major French artisans, and more modest objects, each offering a window into Napoleon's day-to-day life. With commentary from a team of leading experts and historians, this richly illustrated work on one of the most famous figures of all time traces nearly a century of French history, from the last years of the Revolution until Napoleon's exile to St. Helena.