1-156-602 - Ann Ronan Picture Library/Heritage-Images

'Bonaparte at the Bridge of Arcole', 1796. The French defeated the Austrians on 17 November 1796 after a three day battle at Arcole, Northern Italy. The battle was notable in the rise to prominence of Napoleon Bonaparte (1769-1821). Early in the battle, he seized a flag and attempted to cross the bridge separating the two armies, before being driven back by Austrian fire. After the battle, Napoleon commissioned this heroic portrait of his actions at Arcole. Detail.