1-155-557 - Art Media/Heritage Images

'Crossing of Arcola Bridge', 15 November 1796, (19th century). Popular image of the three-day battle against the Austrians, which took place at Arcole, (or Arcola) in northern Italy. During the battle, Napoleon Bonaparte (1769-1821) famously grabbed a flag and personally led an assault across the bridge. On the final day, the French generals Massena and Augereau forced their way across the river and the defenders, fearful of being trapped, quickly retreated.