Napoleon acquires the Borghese collection

Background. The Borghese Collection, assembled by Cardinal Scipione Borghese from the 17th century, contained major works by Caravaggio, Raphael, and Titian, alongside ancient Roman art. By 1807, Camillo Borghese faced financial difficulties and pressure from his brother-in-law, Napoleon Bonaparte, leading to the sale of 344 antiquities to the French state at below market price.

The Sale. Camillo Borghese sold 154 statues, 160 busts, 170 bas-reliefs, 30 columns, and various vases. The Antinous Mondragone, a marble head rediscovered near Tusculum, was part of this sale. It was sold for one of the highest prices in the collection, reflecting its significance within the Borghese holdings.

Transfer to Paris. The sold antiquities were transferred to Paris. The Antinous Mondragone, previously housed at the Villa Mondragone as part of the Borghese collection, was moved to the Louvre. The Louvre, located on the Right Bank of the Seine, served as the destination for these works, which were part of Napoleon's broader acquisition of art.