Reliëf met portret van koning Lodewijk XIV en profil, door P. Puget c. 1875 - 1900

Adolphe Giraudon created this photograph of a relief featuring King Louis XIV. The image is dominated by a circular composition, sharply contrasted against a dark background, emphasizing the texture and intricate details of the relief. The sculptural work captures Louis XIV in profile, his elaborate wig and ornate attire rendered with meticulous detail. The curls cascade, creating a play of light and shadow, drawing attention to the face. The lace collar shows a similar textural complexity. The contrast between the smooth background and the detailed relief creates a visual hierarchy, highlighting the figure's royal status. The photograph invites us to consider the semiotics of power. Louis XIV’s image, meticulously crafted, projects authority and grandeur. The circular form is reminiscent of a coin or medallion, reinforcing his iconic status. This image, through its formal elements, not only captures a likeness but also constructs a symbol of absolute monarchy. This interplay of form and symbolism invites ongoing interpretation.