Napoleon III and Baron HaussmannFrédéric Adolphe Yvon

Frédéric Adolphe Yvon’s 1865 painting depicts Napoleon III presenting Baron Haussmann with the decree for annexing surrounding districts on 16 February 1859. This event initiated Haussmann’s transformative urban renewal of Paris, introducing wide boulevards and modern infrastructure. Commissioned by the City of Paris, the artwork symbolizes the era’s ambitious vision and lasting impact on the cityscape.