The Art Archive

<< [ timeline ] >> The Golden Age 1600-1700

1.			This imposing portrait of Louis XIV (1638-1715) by Rigaud confirms his status as the Sun King and his claim to absolute power in France. An extravagant 72-year reign known as the Grand Siècle resulted in the building of Versailles and the increased patronage of the arts. Initially, his military ambitions were equally successful - however, his obsession with expanding the French Empire eventually involved France in four major wars, the results of which left France wracked with social, political and economic problems.
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				1. King Louis XIV by Hyacinthe Rigaud (1659-1743) 5. City of New Amsterdam (New York) on Manhattan Island c.1667 2. The Emperor Shah Jahan in 1630, Mughal painting 6. Detail from Allegory of senses by Jan Brueghel (1568-1625) 3. King Philip II of Spain by Pieter Paul Rubens 1628 7. The Ecstasy of St Theresa of Avila by Bernini 1645-52 4. View of Architecture Pietre dure by Francesco Antonio Corberelli 1670				7.