Decoration Executed for the Birthday of His Majesty the King of Westphalia
1811
From the collection of Cleveland Museum of Art
1811
From the collection of Cleveland Museum of Art
This painting shows a fancy stage decoration with bright colors and gold details. It was made for a party celebrating the birthday of Jérôme Bonaparte, Napoleon’s brother. The artist, Cicéri, worked for the Paris Opera and knew how to design dramatic scenes. The event was a big deal in 1811. Westphalia was a new kingdom created by Napoleon, and this artwork helped celebrate its power. The gold and red colors make it look royal and important. If you like this kind of fancy design, check out Pierre-Luc-Charles Cicéri (French, 1782–1868).