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Louis XVI in Coronation Robes by Joseph Siffred Duplessis

Joseph Siffred Duplessis · 1777-01-01

This striking "Portrait of Louis XVI" by Joseph Duplessis, painted in 1777, captures the French king in his coronation robes. The original was exhibited at the Paris Salon of 1777 and became one of the most popular images of the monarch.

Notice the opulent ermine-lined robes and the dark blue fabric adorned with gold fleur-de-lis, the royal emblem of France. The heavy gold chain of the Order of the Holy Spirit and the ornate scepter further emphasize his regal status.

Created just two years after Louis XVI ascended the throne in 1774, this portrait reflects the early years of his reign. It symbolizes the traditional legitimacy of the Bourbon monarchy before the dramatic upheavals of the French Revolution, which ultimately led to his execution in 1793. Though the original painting is now lost, several copies, like this one, preserve its historical significance.

What do you think of the artist's portrayal of the king's calm authority?

Details

He is wearing the opulent robes from his coronation.
He is wearing the opulent robes from his coronation.
The fleur-de-lis, symbol of French royalty, covers his fabric.
The fleur-de-lis, symbol of French royalty, covers his fabric.
This prominent piece of regalia, with its Maltese cross pendant, signifies his high rank and membership in a prestigious chivalric order.
This prominent piece of regalia, with its Maltese cross pendant, signifies his high rank and membership in a prestigious chivalric order.
Transcript

This portrait of Louis XVI was painted in 1776. He is wearing the opulent robes from his coronation. The fleur-de-lis, symbol of French royalty, covers his fabric. The original was shown at the Paris Salon of 1777. It became a highly popular image of the monarch. Though the original is now lost, many copies exist. This painting captures him before the French Revolution. He would be guillotined seventeen years later.