Bust of Louis XIV (Bernini)

The Bust of Louis XIV is a marble sculpture created by the Italian artist Gian Lorenzo Bernini between 1665 and 1666. Commissioned during Bernini's visit to Paris at the request of King Louis XIV, the bust is widely considered a masterpiece of Baroque portraiture. It captures the likeness of the French monarch in a dynamic and idealized manner, emphasizing his power and authority.

The bust is characterized by its dramatic use of drapery, particularly the swirling folds of the king's cloak which add a sense of movement and grandeur. Bernini skillfully renders the textures of the hair, skin, and fabrics, conveying a sense of realism and vitality. The king's expression is carefully crafted to project an image of confidence and regal bearing.

Despite tensions and frustrations that arose during Bernini's time in Paris, the Bust of Louis XIV was ultimately well-received and became a symbol of the king's reign. It exemplifies Bernini's ability to capture not only the physical appearance but also the personality and essence of his subject. The bust is currently housed in the Palace of Versailles.