The Revolution has happened; Marie Antoinette and Louis XVI have been beheaded. First Consul Bonaparte becomes the first Emperor of France. In this role of power, how does he utilize the arts? How could he – and his wider family - wield centuries of cultural heritage to their own gain? In this talk, Rose will explore the artists working with the Bonaparte family, with a particular focus on Italian sculptor Canova. Morphing the imperial rulers into ancient mythological gods and goddesses, Canova’s sculptures are some of the most exquisitely crafted – and most influential - pieces of neoclassical art from the 19th century.