Henri IV, 1553-1610, King of France 1589 1607

This is a bronze portrait medal of Henri IV, King of France, made by Guillaume Dupré. The medal, created after Henri's death, reflects the complex politics of imagery in early modern France, where the monarchy sought to project an image of power and stability after decades of religious conflict. Dupré's work, with its detailed rendering of Henri's features and ornate armor, draws on earlier traditions of royal portraiture. The artistic institutions of the time, such as the Académie Royale de Peinture et de Sculpture, played a role in shaping artistic styles and promoting the interests of the monarchy. It is important to remember that art like this doesn’t just happen, it is produced. Understanding this medal requires us to look at the social conditions of 17th-century France, researching the history of the French monarchy, the role of portraiture in constructing royal identity, and the artistic patronage of the court. With these resources we can better understand the meanings that art had and continues to have.