Introduction

In the 1653 ballet "Ballet de la Nuit," Louis XIV is portrayed as Apollo, where art and power subtly meet. This theme echoes what I mentioned in my article on Diadumenus and Olympic Legacy: Ancient Athleticism—art often reflects political and cultural values. Designed by Henri de Gissey (1621-1673) or possibly Louis Beaubrun, this portrayal of Louis XIV as Apollo merges myth with monarchy, presenting the young king as both the Sun God and ruler of France.

Bust portrait of Louis XIV in a three-quarter view, facing right, set within an oval border. Engraved by P. van Schuppen.
Portrait of Louis XIV, engraved by P. van Schuppen, showing the king in a three-quarter bust view within an oval frame.

The Portrait of a King

This unofficial portrait captures a young Louis XIV in a stage costume as Apollo, advancing with elegance and dignity. Without a mask or wig, the king's gracefully raised hands, palms down, emphasize the balance of his absolute rule, accountable only to God. The golden costume, adorned with a feathered tiara, symbolizes the radiant sun, underscoring the double allegory of Louis XIV as Apollo, God of the Sun and the arts.

Symbolism and Allegory

Beyond its luxury, the costume reflects the double meaning of the character Louis XIV embodied: Apollo, symbolizing both the Sun and the arts. The young king, considered a miraculous child due to his unexpected birth, emanates both physical and intellectual light. This aligns with the theory of the king's dual body (physical and symbolic) as Louis XIV himself asserted, "The nation does not form a body in France; it resides entirely in the person of the king."

Details

Audio and Inspiration
Don't miss to listen to Marche pour la Cérémonie des Turcs by Jean-Baptiste Lully, performed by Jordi Savall.

Inspiration and Notable Sources

  1. L'histoire par l'image (in French)
  2. Art Museum Curator James David Draper (in French)
  3. The video "Le Grand Siècle" by Grand Palais (in French)
  4. Musique de la Court de Louis XIV, "Marche pour la ceremonie des Turcs"
  5. Jordi Savall and the Music of Versailles
  6. Baroque vs Classicisme (in French)
  7. The Art of Power: How Louis XIV Ruled France … With Ballet
  8. Famous Parallel Figures: Kangxi and Louis XIV
  9. Ballet de la Nuit: Staging the Absolute Monarchy of Louis XIV
Published by Eleonora in Baroque
Tags: Apollo, Ballet, Baroque, Classical Dance, French Influence, Greek, Louis XIV, Lully, Roi Soleil, Sun God, Versailles