Shining A Light On The Sun King
A new exhibition which opened last week at the Palace of Versailles outside Paris celebrates the life of Louis XIV, the Sun King.
The exhibition explores the paintings, sculptures, furniture and jewellery that helped France’s most famous and flamboyant monarch shape his all-powerful image. Some of the 300 pieces have not been seen publicly since the French Revolution in 1789.
Born in 1638, Louis ascended to the throne at the age of four and reigned for 72 years until his death in 1715.
It was Louis who decided to turn his father’s hunting lodge at Versailles into the dazzling centre of his universe, moving his court, government and military command there. The exhibition includes a 17th century painting of the reconstruction of Versailles, which has been loaned by Queen Elizabeth II.
Perhaps the most surprising portrait of Louis is a profile made from a wax mask of his face, dating from around 1705. He’s seen toothless and frail at the age of about 66.
Louis XIV, the Man and the King runs until February 7. Details are on the Versailles website.
by Andy Moreton
Versailles is about 12 miles south-west of the centre of Paris and a visit there is a pleasant way to spend a day while staying in the city. Luxique can offer the pick of the luxury hotels in Paris, as well as the elegant and newly refurbished Trianon Palace, which nestles in woodland less than a mile from the Palace of Versailles.
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Pingback by Sun King Dazzles Paris Again | Luxique Luxury Travel — October 27, 2009 @ 11:08 pm
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Comment by Polprav — November 2, 2009 @ 9:07 pm