Science and Splendour in the Sun King's Court

The Monarchy of Enlightenment

In the opulent halls of Versailles, power danced with knowledge. Three kings held sway: Louis XIV, the self-proclaimed "State incarnate"; Louis XV, a fervent student of science; and Louis XVI, destined to rule in the shadow of revolution.

Louis XV, crowned at an early age, immersed himself in scientific pursuits. From cartography to astronomy, he devoured knowledge with an unquenchable thirst.

The Mighty Rhino and the Clock of Time

The exhibition's star attraction is the imposing male Indian rhinoceros, once the pride of Louis XV's exotic menagerie. Its tragic demise during the revolution adds a poignant touch to its presence.

Another marvel is the Clock of the Creation of the World. A testament to engineering genius, it depicts the celestial dance of planets and stars with breathtaking intricacy.

Emilie du Chatelet: A Luminary in a Darkened World

In the shadows of patriarchal society, Emilie du Chatelet's intellect shone brightly. A remarkable scientist, she penned groundbreaking works, translating Newton's theories and advocating for the education of women.

Her portrait graces the exhibition, a reminder that even in the era of absolutism, the pursuit of knowledge was not confined to courtly circles.

Scientific Grandeur in a Time of Excess

The magnificent fountains of Versailles are a testament to the scientific ingenuity of the 18th century. Engineers and scholars devised intricate mechanisms to bring these watery wonders to life.

Yet, the splendor of Versailles coexisted with a stark disparity between the opulence of the court and the poverty of the peasantry. The exhibition astutely juxtaposes these realities.

Absence and Legacy

While the exhibition showcases the wonders of the Sun King's era, it briefly touches on the French Revolution, the cataclysmic event that tore apart the monarchy and its scientific pursuits.

This glaring omission leaves questions unanswered about the fate of scientific discoveries during that turbulent period.

"Versailles: Science and Splendour" is an enthralling journey through an era of enlightenment and excess. It illuminates the intersection of science, monarchy, and the human spirit, leaving visitors with a profound appreciation for the quest for knowledge.