In today’s class, we focused on Baroque art in France, with the epitome of this style being Louis XIV’s Palace of Versailles. This style of art intertwines and enforces the concepts of absolute monarchy and divine right, which were ideas pioneered by Louis XIV. Louis called himself the “sun king” because his power stretched across the land and was felt by all, just like the sun. The front facade of the palace was original before Louis remolded and expanded it, but the back garden side is entirely different and done in the classical style. This facade hearkens back to Renaissance-style architecture with the three levels each with its own unique characteristics that are able to blend together to create a harmonious facade. It is very symmetrical and balanced, which highlights the classical influence. This symmetry and order extends into the gardens which are thoroughly manicured into elaborate designs with designated paths intersecting through the lawns.
All aspects of the place are meant to glorify Louis, from the layout of the palace to the decorative elements. Louis’ bedroom is in the very center of the palace, and the axis of the complex runs east to west, just like the sun. In the Hall of Mirrors, mirrors are placed exactly opposite giant windows so that the light from the sun reflects and multiplies across the room, overflowing it with light. This was a deliberate design choice meant to demonstrate the power of Louis through the use of sun imagery.