A treasure can be many things: a monetary reserve a sovereign can dip into, an accumulation of precious objects of all kinds, the object of a legendary quest like those of the Knights of the Round Table. Treasure is also an object to which you are sentimentally attached and which you want to keep hidden from others. A treasure can also be an intangible asset, such as a place, an exceptional person or who possesses unparalleled know-how, such as the living treasure in Japan.
Whichever definition you choose, treasure indicates something priceless and precious. In this exhibition, you won’t come across pirates or corsairs looking for Treasure Island - but coffers overflowing with gold and silverware are not far away!
This exhibition is all about the treasures of kings, princes and the powerful. It includes 60 diverse works, covering the various definitions of the word treasure.
They are ostentatious objects, symbolising the wealth and power of their owners. As such, they are part of the public displays of power : at official banquets, where wealth is displayed through tableware; at the coronation ceremony of kings, which reinforced the link between power and God; or during diplomatic interactions marked by the exchanging of prestigious gifts. War is also a place where the king is represented : he must control his image through the weapons and armour he wears.
But there are also treasures made for the private domain. In the chamber of power, we see the patronage the powerful bestowed on artists through objects such as books (illuminated in the Middle Ages or printed from the middle of the 15th century on) and tapestries, etc. Incorporated into the very private lives of kings and queens, other small items played a role in appearance, relating to the royal toilette, beauty and body care.
Practical information
General public
Included in admission to the Fortress
