Louis XVI, King of France 1783

This engraving depicts Louis XVI, King of France, and was created by an anonymous artist. It was published for the Peace of 1783, the ninth year of his reign. Portraits of Louis XVI are inevitably viewed through the lens of the French Revolution. His reign was a period of immense social and economic upheaval, and this image offers a glimpse into the construction of royal authority just before its collapse. The inscription below the portrait, with its promises of peace and glory, stands in stark contrast to the turmoil that would soon engulf the French monarchy. Consider how the artist uses established symbols of power to convey the King's authority. But also reflect on how these traditional representations were being challenged and undermined during Louis XVI's reign. How might the promise of peace have resonated with a populace weary of war and economic hardship, and how does this image invite us to consider the complex relationship between image, power, and social change?