The artwork titled “Sovereigns No.1° Caricature of Napoleon III” was created by the artist James Tissot in 1869. It belongs to the Realism art movement and is a caricature genre piece, part of the “Sovereigns (Caricatures)” series.
The artwork portrays a caricature of Napoleon III, depicted with exaggerated facial features and attire. Napoleon III is shown wearing a large, black bicorne hat and a brown overcoat that flaps open to reveal military regalia beneath, including a white uniform with noticeable buttons and a red sash. He leans on a cane with a stern expression on his face. Behind him, a female figure with wings, possibly an allegorical representation, whispers something with a finger to her lips, suggesting secrecy or caution. The background features a stylized sunset or evening sky indicated by orange and red hues, which complements the illustrative and satirical nature of the piece. This work was published in Vanity Fair on September 4, 1869, further emphasizing its satirical intent within a popular periodical.
