This Is Why Napoleon Always Hid His Right Hand

Napoleon Bonaparte was famous for his short stature, but the truth is, he was a military giant. This ambitious and dedicated man was said to be one of the greatest military leaders in history.

But not a lot is known about him. To this day, people still wonder why he is always depicted with his right hand in his clothes. What was he trying to hide from the rest of the world?

What Was The Reason?

It appears that in every historic portrait of Napoleon, his right hand is strategically absent. It seems to always be tucked into his coat.

Was it a coincidence? Was he perhaps trying to hide something that could damage his reputation? Or was it a secret message for his enemies or companions? Historians were dedicated to finding some answers. What they discovered surprised everyone.

French Emperor

There are dozens of paintings of Napoleon. As the one-time Emperor of the French, he was asked to pose for many portraits in his lifetime.

But there have been many bizarre rumors floating around because of his hidden hand. So why exactly did he choose to hide his right hand from these portraits?

Famous Portrait

French artist, Jacques-Louis David, painted the most famous example of Napoleon’s strange stance. It was painted in 1812 and to this day, it remains the most iconic portrait of Napoleon.

It was painted while Napoleon was still the Emperor of the French. This image is at the center of a 200-year old mystery.

Positive Response

The painting is called, ‘The Emperor Napoleon in His Study at the Tuileries’. It was not painted from life but the artist still managed to capture Napoleon’s stately glory.

Alexander Hamilton, the Scottish politicial, commissioned the portrait. Apparently, when Napoleon saw the magnificent portrait, he responded with, “You have understood me, my dear David.” But what exactly did the David understand?