1978.19.a
The Arrival of the King in Paris
Artist
Bertrand Andrieu
(1761 - 1822)
Title
The Arrival of the King in Paris
Creation Date
1789
Century
late 18th century
Dimensions
3 3/8 in. (8.57 cm.)
Classification
Medals/Plaquettes
Creation Place
Europe, France
Medium and Support
lead-filled bronze cliché
Credit Line
Gift of Mrs. John Rand
Copyright
This artwork may be under copyright. For further information, please consult the Museum’s
Copyright Terms and Conditions.
Accession Number
1978.19.a
Andrieu’s medal illustrates the arrival of King Louis XVI with the royal family in Paris in 1789. This richly detailed scene depicts the equestrian statue of Louis XV in the background, King Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette in the windows of their carriage, and a cheering crowd of well-dressed Parisians surrounding the majesties. However, a woman in the center left, who appears to be brandishing a sword or a stick in opposition to the presence of the royal family, hauntingly foreshadows the royal family’s future demise at the hands of the French people.
Additional Media
verso