During David’s previous years, his father, who worked in textiles was murdered in a duel. After his father’s passing, he was raised by his two uncles in a not so tender manner. Following his school years, he enrolled into the Royal Academy of Painting and Sculpture. After four years of failing in official competitions and a failed suicide attempt by avoiding food, he won over the Prix de Rome that provided a stay in Italy and lucrative commissions in France. Later in his life, David went on to be a world renowned artist that we still celebrate today.

During the later years in David’s life, his friend was executed by guillotine. Following his friend’s execution David was arrested and imprisoned twice. During his imprisonment he was allowed to paint to ease his worries. After the downfall of Napoleon David was exiled to Brussels, Belgium where he spent his last days.