Equestrian Statue of Louis XIV (1638-1715) c. early 18th century

Curator: Here we have an equestrian statue depicting Louis XIV, though the artist who created it remains anonymous. Editor: The bronze feels weighty, almost like the artist intended to convey the burden of power that Louis carried. Curator: The materiality definitely speaks to that. Bronze casting itself was a significant undertaking, requiring skilled labor and access to resources, all of which were tightly controlled and symbolized Louis' absolute authority. Editor: And the scale of the statue, even in miniature, is imposing. I wonder about the labour involved in its creation and who these artists were. Curator: Given the period, it’s vital to remember that while the statue celebrates Louis, its existence relied on a system of exploitation and inequality that’s only just beginning to be acknowledged. The power dynamic inherent in its creation is undeniable. Editor: I think that examining the base itself, with its gilt reliefs, offers another entry point for this analysis. Curator: It is quite something to contemplate the sheer volume of material and human resources channeled into glorifying a single person. Editor: Indeed, and it forces us to consider the broader societal implications of such artistic endeavours.