Louis XIV, 1638-1715, King of France 1643 [obverse] 1684

This silver medal portrays Louis XIV and was created by Michel Molart. See how Louis, rendered in profile, is surrounded by the inscription "Ludovicus Magnus Rex Christianissimus"? These aren't mere titles, but potent symbols. "Magnus," echoing the Roman emperors, asserts his power and ambition. "Christianissimus," meaning "Most Christian King," connects him to a divine lineage, a notion echoed in the fleur-de-lis adorning his armor, each a stylized lily representing the Holy Trinity. Consider how the profile portrait itself—inherited from ancient coins—lends Louis an air of timeless authority, connecting him to the grand rulers of antiquity. The fleur-de-lis, which once symbolized purity and the Virgin Mary, was later adopted by French royalty, becoming a symbol of the French monarchy's divine right to rule. Yet, these symbols are not static; they are imbued with the desires, fears, and aspirations of each era. The artist masterfully employs these motifs, speaking to our collective memory and stirring something deep within the subconscious. This medal is not just a portrait; it is a carefully constructed image, a testament to the enduring power of symbols and their cyclical journey through time.