Three Emblems for Louis XIV

Jacques Bailly; Abbé Amable de Bourzeis

about 1663–1668

Gouache and gold, Gouache, Gold

J. Paul Getty Museum

An ornate emblem features cherubs, winged figures, and draped fabric surrounding a landscape with palm trees and a swarm of birds. Text appears above and below the emblem. Symbolic of the lavish and expensive artworks that were celebrated at the court of Versailles, the emblems of Louis XIV showcase his high opinion of his place in the world, a remarkable insight to this omnipotent ruler. Commissioned to revel in the triumphs of the Sun King Louis XIV (1638-1715), the series of official emblems were created as part of the Devises les tapisseries du Roy (Devices for the Tapestries of the King). The leaves were commissioned to celebrate the acquisition of the famed fortress of Lorraine, Marsal (or Marcal) that was gifted to Louis XIV by his Chief Minister of Finance, Charles IV in 1663. The leaves were