Thanks to a special partnership with the Musée des Invalides, in this room we present some emblematic objects of royal power, having belonged to four of the most famous kings of the 16th, 17th and 18th centuries. War raged uninterrupted across Europe during these three centuries.
Henry II of France (1519 - 1559), the son of Francis I, was constantly fighting Holy Roman Emperor Charles V throughout his reign. The King died following a jousting accident with the Captain of his Scottish Guard, Gabriel de Montgomery.
Louis XIII (1601-1643) had to face the Protestant revolt at the beginning of his reign and restored order after six years of civil war. After Wars of Religion at home, the King entered the Thirty Years' War (the European War of Religion between Catholics and Protestants, 1618 - 1648) which occupied France beyond the end of his reign.
Louis XIV (1638 - 1715), the Sun King, was also known as the War King because of the many military campaigns he led, notably against Spain. Historians estimate that France was at war for approximately 46 out of the 72 years of Louis XIV's reign.
The “peaceful” Louis XV (1710-1774), who was fond of art and science, was involved in only two conflicts: the War of the Austrian Succession (1740-1748), and the Seven Years' War (1756-1763).
All the works in this room are linked to military parlance. They symbolise the warrior king, in his role defending or enlarging his kingdom, and maintaining order within it.
The king asserts his power and might through impressive defence equipment, which he either has made for himself or as gifts to those loyal to him.
Illustration
Henry II or France on foot
Frans Hogenberg and Hans Liefrinck I
Etching,1559
Paris, Bibliothèque Nationale de France
Etching and photography department
RESERVE QB-201(4) – FOL