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Can you help me with my quest to find more info in historical records on Napoleon's Talisman found in the Netherlands? I appreciate ANY assistance and also thanks for sharing this question with fellow Napoleon & Josephine fans! Princess KAA DOR

Jean-Louis-Ernest Meissonier Painting

1814. Campagne de France (Napoleon and his staff returning from Soissons after the Battle of Laon), Presented at the 1864 Salon

I have been longing to see this painting in person. I had the opportunity to read about Meissonier two summers ago in a great book entitled: The Judgement of Paris. The author gave an amazing account of what went on behind the scenes in the Paris art world.

This painting is small. It might be two feet wide.

Meissonier was a legend for the amount of detail he put into his paintings. They took years to complete and he usually re-enacted the scene several times using live actors and horses. Even flour was used for the snow. Very very expensive techniques to create these tiny masterpieces.

There wasn't a soul near me as I moved in with my camera. The painting is hanging in a very quiet hallway in the Musee d'orsay. I might have missed it. But that hat always catches my eye.

More From the Musee National de la Legion d'honneur

I saw this plaque from a distance and was immediately drawn to it. I have never seen a picture of it before and snapped these myself. It is called "The Regency of the King of Rome or Empress Maria Louise Guiding The First Steps of The King of Rome." It is porcelain which makes it very special. It was painted by Louis-Bertin Parant.

Napoleon presented this to his mother on New Year's Day 1814.

The scene depicts the Empress guiding The King of Rome towards the bust of his father Napoleon. His statue is is on a pedestal decorated with "winged victory."

Don't you love the bees in the frame?

Legion D'Honneur Museum

Friends, I am in Paris.

My number one pick for a Napoleon place to visit was the Museum of The Legion of Honor. I have not had the chance to go on other trips and decided I would not miss it this trip.

The museum is actually a small compound. You have to walk around a small block so you don't miss anything. It is right beside the bigger Musee d'Orsay.

The days are very grey here in Paris. It is helpful when you take photos though. No glare!

I could not wait to go in. The museum doesn't open until 1pm. When I walked over I was very surprised to be ushered in by a gentleman standing at the front door. I was escorted to the coat check where I left my bag. I looked around for a ticket booth...and surprise it is free to visit! I wandered throughout the three floors on my own. I had the whole museum to myself for the most part. I was just thrilled to be there.

Here is the first thing I saw! I have many pictures to share in the next couple of days.

Here is just one of the spectacular framed collections.

I don't think I have ever had a more pleasant museum experience. The staff were so professional but nice! I felt very welcomed. I am definitely going back! It is now my favorite museum in Paris.

A Thought

We must serve the people worthily,

and not occupy ourselves

in trying to please them.

The best way to gain their affections is to do them good.

Napoleon Maxim

New Year Maxim

We walk faster when we walk alone.

Napoleon