Royal Education of the Dauphin 1736

This bronze medal, created by Jean Duvivier in 1736, depicts Louis XV, King of France, in profile. The inscription around the edge reads "LUD. XV. REX CHRISTIANISS." which translates to "Louis XV, King of the Christians." This medal is a prime example of the use of portraiture to celebrate and commemorate royal figures in the 18th century. The finely-detailed engraving of the King's features and the inscription highlight the importance of royal authority and the king's role as the head of the Christian faith. It is a small but powerful representation of the royal image, now housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art.