Penning met buste van Lodewijk XIV 1702

Gérard Edelinck created this print of Louis XIV, likely sometime in the late 17th century. It is an engraving, made for distribution. The print serves as propaganda; the surrounding Latin text proclaims Louis XIV "the most Christian king", which shows that the image aims to connect the French monarchy to a sense of divine authority. Louis XIV was a master of self-fashioning and centralized power through carefully managed displays of his own image, such as at the Palace of Versailles. His reign represents a pivotal moment in the history of the modern state, as the concept of divine right of kings gained prominence. By studying prints like these, alongside other historical documents, we can get a better idea of the social conditions that shaped the art and politics of the time. Understanding this context helps us to interpret the meaning and significance of Edelinck's portrait of Louis XIV, as it was consumed and understood by its contemporary audience.