Portrait of Count Jean-Antoine Chaptal

Count Chaptal (1756-1832) played a major role in the development of industry after the French Revolution. He adapted scientific discoveries to public works projects, and as interior minister, he reformed transportation, public health, and vocational training in France. The portrait extols his career, marked by stacked filing boxes in the background, as well as the honors he wears, from the silk sash of the scientific Order of Saint Michel to the Legion of Honor medal pinned over his heart.