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A portrait of Louis XIV

This is a portrait of the king of France Louis XIV wearing his coronation outfit. It was painted in 1701. Everything about this painting is spectacular. The large red and gold curtain is reminiscent of a theatre. The king’s wig makes him appear taller. His cape is so big and heavy, you might wonder how it stays on his shoulders!

The king’s head

This is a statue of a prince, and not just any prince! It’s Prince Gudea. About 5,000 years ago, he ruled over the kingdom of Lagash, in Mesopotamia (modern-day Iraq). Look at his folded hands: this is a gesture of prayer. Gudea was very religious.

A bowl for a trophy

This golden bowl was a gift from the king of Egypt Thutmose III to the scribe Djehuty to thank him for his service. A royal scribe was a high official who worked for the administration or army of the king. The bowl is decorated with delicate details. Do you see the palmette (a sort of leaf resembling a palm tree) in the middle? And a ring of fish below a row of plants (papyrus, it would seem)?

Citizens, take up your arms!

You may have already seen this famous painting before. Do you know the story behind it?

The Adventures of the Regent

The Egyptian Expedition

The Venus who Sprang from the Earth