Portrait of Louis XVI, King of France and Navarre 1776

Joseph Duplessis captured Louis XVI, King of France and Navarre, in paint, immortalizing more than just a likeness. Notice the blue sash, a symbol of the French monarchy, and the starburst emblem. These aren't mere decorations, they’re potent symbols of royal authority and divine right. We see similar symbols echoed throughout history, from ancient Roman emperors to Byzantine rulers, each adapting these emblems to reinforce their legitimacy. The star motif, often associated with enlightenment and guidance, appears across cultures, from the Star of Bethlehem to celestial maps guiding sailors. But consider how these symbols have evolved. What was once a beacon of hope and knowledge can, in another context, represent rigid authority. The collective memory of these images – their past glories and present discontents – affect our perception. Perhaps, subconsciously, we recognize that the weight of tradition can become a burden, as the emotional climate simmers in the calm before the French Revolution. These symbols are non-linear, cyclical. They resurface, evolve, and take on new meanings, endlessly engaging viewers in a silent dialogue across time.