Versailles, the Marble Court of the Chateau, Festival Around the Fountain.
Classification
Department
Smithsonian Collection
Museum
Smithsonian American Art Museum
Credit
Gift of Eleanor and Sarah Hewitt
Accession Number
1931-86-65
About this artwork
Research in Progress
Art Historical Context
Jean Le Pautre’s 1676 print captures a lively festival unfolding in the Marble Court of Versailles, the grand residence of Louis XIV. Created during the height of the Sun King’s reign, the scene reflects the era’s extravagant court celebrations, where fountains, music, elaborate pageantry showcased French royal power and artistic patronage. As a leading engraver and designer, Le Pautre specialized in documenting the splendor of Versailles, helping to immortalize its architecture and festivities for audiences far beyond the palace walls. This print belongs to the tradition of Baroque represent...