Louis XIV: Man and King

Louis XIV, or perhaps better known to some as the Sun King, is considered one of the most remarkable monarchs in history.  During his 72 year reign, yes you read that right, he personally controlled the French government bringing to France the ideal of absolutism by striving to create the ideal kingdom.  Going beyond merely political strength, he made every effort to take his nation out of a crumbling medieval world into one of incredible elegance and refinement.   He was a generous patron of the arts and as a result, much of the historical splendor one sees as they travel throughout France can be attributed to having been created while he was king.

Running his kingdom from the magnificence called Versailles, the chateau became the epicenter of great political thought.   In addition, it was the inspiration for many works of art, architecture and music created during the 17th century.  The over the top opulence that you will find as you go through the palace is visually overwhelming.  Room after room of walls and ceilings covered in painted scenes and intricate gold ormolu leading to the Hall of Mirrors, a ballroom which flat out takes ones breath away, is exhausting. Even the French as they walk through their own history are left amazed.

Starting tomorrow, October 20th and running to February 7, 2010, an exhibition illustrating Louis as both man and king is opening at the Chateau de Versailles.  It is the first time that pieces from around the world have been collected  in order to create a sense of his personal tastes and public image.   Over 300 pieces, including paintings, sculpture, furniture and objets d’art will be on exhibit.  Should you be lucky enough to make it to the exhibit, you will be seeing paintings by Le Brun, gardens laid out by Le Nôtre, architecture created by Hardouin-Mansart, all while listening to the delicate sounds of Lully.

Versailles is spectacular just on its own without any bells and whistle exhibits going on.  This exhibit, my friends, will certainly be the icing on what is an exquisite cake to begin with.  Make every effort to attend.

Additional information:

Exhibition Louis XIV, man and king

Les Tresors de Louis XIV a beautiful peek into the actual exhibit.

Photo credit:  wikipedia