King Arthur 1536 - 1546

Colin Nouailher created this painted enamel dish depicting King Arthur sometime in the 16th century in Limoges, France. This image sits within the broader European fascination with the Arthurian legends, tales that often functioned as ways to express ideas about chivalry and the responsibilities of leadership. However, this dish, made during the Renaissance, presents a unique image of King Arthur that likely spoke to the political and religious tensions of its time. Nouailher presents Arthur as a stoic, heavily armed figure, a visual choice that may have been influenced by the growing conflicts between Protestants and Catholics. Arthur's stern expression and the military garb contrast with the more romanticized, courtly depictions of the legendary king. It projects an image of a leader ready for battle. This dish encourages us to consider how historical figures are constantly reimagined to suit contemporary needs. The visual language of power, religion, and cultural identity intertwine in this object, reflecting the complex tapestry of 16th-century Europe.