Louis of France, The Grand Dauphin c. 1698 - 1699

Antoine Coysevox created this marble bust of Louis of France, the Grand Dauphin, using traditional sculpting methods. Consider the material itself. Marble, prized for its purity and ability to take a polish, elevates the status of the sitter. The labor involved in extracting, transporting, and carving such a large block of stone was immense, underscoring the Dauphin’s power. The artist would have used a variety of tools to rough out the form, gradually refining it with chisels and rasps. Note the contrast between the smooth, polished skin and the intricately carved wig. The profusion of curls, each individually articulated, speaks to the artist's virtuosity, and the Dauphin's elevated position in society. The details of the drapery, with its delicate lace and flowing folds, further demonstrate Coysevox’s skill. In appreciating this bust, remember that the true meaning of art lies not just in its aesthetic qualities, but also in the materials, processes, and cultural context that shaped its creation.