French painter, one of the central figures of Neoclassicism.    Initially studied under Vien in Italy where he came into contact with the initiators of the new Classical revival.   On returning to Paris in 1780 he soon established himself as a painter whose works epitomized the disposition of the period, a period of civic virtues, self sacrifice, devotion to duty, honesty and austerity.   David was an active supporter and sympathizer of the Revolution, voting for the execution of Louis XVI, and was the unchallenged "painter of the Revolution".   Later he was to become Official Painter to Napoleon whom he zealously supported and produced many fine works depicting the Napoleonic era.   After the fall of Napoleon he went into excile in Brussels, the new subdued yet sensuous quality of his work reflecting his mood and position.