Don Pedro of Toledo Kissing the Sword of Henri IV 1831

Jean Auguste Dominique Ingres painted this oil on canvas depicting Don Pedro of Toledo kissing the sword of Henri IV. Ingres lived through the French Revolution and the Napoleonic era, witnessing profound shifts in French society and its institutions. This painting reflects the Romantic era's fascination with history and the construction of national identity, particularly the emphasis on heroic figures and significant historical moments. The setting of the Château de Pau, the birthplace of Henri IV, adds another layer to this construction of identity. Ingres's history paintings often served a didactic purpose, reinforcing conservative social and political values. The focus on historical accuracy and detail in the painting suggests a desire to present a credible and authentic vision of the past. Further research into the Château de Pau's archives, along with studies of French history and political thought of the 19th century, will allow us to fully understand the painting's meaning within its original cultural context.