Portret van Lodewijk XIV, koning van Frankrijk 1842 - 1897

This print of Louis XIV, King of France, was made by Christiaan Lodewijk van Kesteren. The image of the King as a child could connect us to the wider culture of 19th century Dutch nationalism. It creates meaning through the symbols of the French monarchy. The fleur-de-lis mark him as a King even as his young androgynous face signifies he is not yet fully in power. It’s interesting to note that the Dutch artist is creating imagery surrounding the French monarchy. Perhaps he is commenting on the Dutch monarchy, which was created in 1815 after the fall of Napoleon. The social conditions which shape artistic production are always important to keep in mind, including Dutch nationalism and the relatively new creation of the Dutch monarchy. With more research we can understand the reasons for the production and iconography of art during that time. The meaning of art is contingent on social and institutional context.