Louis XV 1715 - 1723

This is Jean Duvivier’s silver medal of Louis XV, its circular form typical for portrait medals. The piece has an imperial grandeur and a delicate balance that speaks to the formal aesthetics of the era. Notice how the composition uses the circle's edge to frame the inscription, which in turn, encircles the profile of Louis XV. This creates a structured hierarchy, reinforcing the subject's status. The intricate details of Louis' hair and the laurel wreath contrast with the smooth, polished surfaces of the medal, highlighting the king's idealized image. In semiotic terms, the medal operates as a sign, symbolizing power and authority. The choice of silver adds to the perceived value, further enhancing its status. These elements aren't merely decorative; they communicate the ideological underpinnings of the French monarchy. The medal's circular shape and reflective surface invite viewers to consider their own relationship to power and representation, and the broader cultural values it embodies.