Death Masks of the Famous and Infamous

Napoleon Bonaparte (1769-1821)

Photo Credits: Abroadintheyard

Napoleon Bonaparte was a French statesman and military leader that rose to power during the French Revolution and led many successful campaigns during the French Revolution battles. Napoleon was Emperor of the French from 1804 to 1814 and again in 1815. He is referred to as one of the greatest commanders of all time, yet he is now seen as one of the most celebrated and controversial leaders in human history. In 1821 he died from what was believed to be gastric cancer at the age of 51. However, there are four Napoleon death masks in circulation leaving the authenticity of each one into question after the original was stolen by a woman named Madame Bertrand shortly after his death.