Apotheosis of the Corsican-phoenix

Gillray, James, 1756-1815 · August 2, 1808

Napoleon's flaming nest is the terrestrial globe, resting on sheaves of bayoneted muskets laid on a flat-topped pinnacle. Clouds and crags frame the design. The phoenix, with flaming wings, has the head of Napoleon, turned in profile to the left. He is terror-stricken; his blazing crown flies upwards from his head; his predatory claws are raised in horror. From one his sceptre falls, from the other the orb. He wears a high military collar and round his neck is a tricolour 'Cordon d'Honor' fringed with daggers. On the globe is a map of countries surrounding the Mediterranean, the central spot being Corsica. On the globe, countries are burning. Above the flames by which Napoleon is surrounded are heavy clouds. From above these emerges a dove holding an olive branch, its wings inscribed. It is irradiated, rays descending from behind the clouds (BM).