Insignes du pouvoir et usages de cour à Versailles sous Louis XIV

Abstract

While the crown, sceptre and hand of justice were widely present in the decor of the château, they were never actually present. However, other objects and items of furniture visible in the everyday life of the court served to express royal power or to mark rank and status. Some were passed down from ancient times, others were innovations introduced by Louis XIV. The selection under examination here – they are too numerous to be dealt with in their entirety – aims to shed new light on subjects that have been studied elsewhere, and to present a sample illustrating their various forms and uses. It includes the throne, the bed, the nef (an ornamental dish in the shape of a ship), the baton, the candle holder and the hat.

Keywords

• bâton
• bougeoir
• cérémonial
• chambre du Roi
• chapeau
• château de Versailles