"The catalog essays provide an overview of Josephine's life and a history of her residence, Malmaison. The image and iconography of the empress are explored in official and unofficial portraits as well as in British caricatures and French popular prints, miniatures, sculpture and decorative arts. Her collecting interests and patronage are examined - from horticulture, botanical illustration and the design of her garden at Malmaison to fashion, commemorative projects and contemporary art, including women artists and the painters of the Troubadour style. Other key themes include Josephine's role as a collector, the medieval revival of the early nineteenth century and the celebrated painting of the coronation by Jacques-Louis David."--BOOK JACKET.