The King Addresses the Crowd at Versailles Saying, "My children I will go to Paris but on the condition that I will be with my wife and children." (6 October 1789) 1789

Curator: At the Harvard Art Museums, we have a print by Jean François Janinet that captures a pivotal moment during the French Revolution. It's titled "The King Addresses the Crowd at Versailles Saying, 'My children I will go to Paris but on the condition that I will be with my wife and children.' (6 October 1789)." Editor: Wow, even in monochrome, the scene feels chaotic, almost desperate. You can practically hear the roar of the crowd and feel the tension. Curator: Indeed. Janinet’s work reflects the social unrest and the weakening authority of the monarchy. The King's words, inscribed in the title, reveal his reluctant concession to the demands of the people. The underlying power dynamics are palpable. Editor: It’s interesting to see this moment framed as the King making a deal, as if he still had some say. The image makes me wonder what promises were really kept. Curator: That's a crucial point. Analyzing Janinet's piece prompts us to consider the performative aspects of power and how historical narratives are constructed visually and verbally. Editor: So, it is a picture of a negotiation. A very tense negotiation, but a negotiation nonetheless. Curator: Precisely. It highlights the complexities inherent in periods of radical social and political change. Editor: I like that, seeing this piece is kind of like eavesdropping on a pivotal moment.