Aristocratic StyleLouis XIV & Versailles

Age of AbsolutismThe theory of absolutism held that a

king enjoyed absolute power by divine right.

Louis XIV of France“L’etat, c’est moi!”Sun KingRuled for 72 years

Age of AbsolutismKing controlled

theGovernmentMilitaryChurchEconomyArts

Louis XIV

Arts Under Louis XIVLouis XIV took the initiative to develop art

and culture. 1635 – French Royal Academy of

Language and Literature(Actually under his dad Louis XIII)

1648 – Academy of Painting and Sculpture1661 – Academy of Dance1666 – Academy of Science1669 – Academy of Music1671 – Academy of Architecture

Baroque Architecture in France

The Palace of VersaillesGrandiose symbolismBaroque extremes matched with

Classical simplicityEnormous gardens

VersaillesLocated 20 miles southwest of ParisChateau built for King Louis XIII (r.

1610-1643) as a hunting retreatLouis XIV hated Paris and moved out

of the Louvre to VersaillesTook 36,000 workers 20 years to

convert it to the palace it is today

Versailles

Versailles

Versailles: Absolutism and Architecture

All major avenues radiate from and to the palace courtyard

The King’s bedchamber is the actual center point highlighting the King’s centrality

Gardens reflect the King’s mastery over the natural world

Exterior is classical, linear and geometric emphasizing order and stability

Interior of Versailles

Hall of Mirrors Hall of Mirrors uses natural light, candle

light, and mirrors to create awesome space.

Audience hall that highlights Louis XIV’s enormous wealth and power

Ceiling frescoes depict his successes in war.

Furniture was amazing, gold and silver chairs, trees with jewels hanging from them

Chapel at VersaillesPromotes the image of Louis XIV as

piousDemonstrates his connection to God

and his position as God’s chosen oneMass held at 12:30 p.m. each dayThe people worshipped the King

while the King worshipped God

The King’s Bedroom