The cover of “Viva la Vida” is illustrated by a painting by Delacroix “Liberty Leading the People” which was painted in 1830 to commemorate the July Revolution which saw the people dethrone Charles of the National Guard, wanted to represent himself on his painting. It is he who we see wearing a top hat.
Was the smearing necessary?
Chris Martin is categorical, no one had, when making this choice, measured the international reputation of this painting. When asked about the song, the band members confirmed that the song was a reference to different revolutions, without explicitly pointing the finger at the French revolutions. It is the title song which tells of the fall of a king who imposed Delacroix's painting. Many paintings and typos were tried in vain.
Viva La Vida also refers to Frida Khalo (Mexican painter) who, although totally depressed, still has the energy to write this phrase of hope on her painting. It is this energy of despair of the Mexican artist who continues to create despite everything that pleased Chris Martin, who certainly recognized himself in this approach.