MDVL 380AArt of the Sun King

Catalog

This course explores early modern French art, architecture, and material culture through the longest reigning monarch in history: Louis XIV. Known as the "Sun King," Louis XIV's 72-years on the French throne was noted for his absolutist form of government, colonial expansion, and extensive artistic production. In an era characterized by both the building of Versailles and the emergence of new forms of satire, parody, and protest art, the Sun King crafted a visual and material legacy that continues to have influence today. This course will look across the media of paintings, sculptures, prints, drawings, medals, furniture, textiles, decorative objects, fashion, and architecture to explore the meaning and function of art in this pivotal era. Fulfills pre-1800 requirement for art history major or minor. Prerequisite: any ARTH 100- or 200-level course.