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The Arts Intel Report

Louis XV: The Interests and Passions of a King

Vincent de Montpetit Arnaud, Portrait of Louis XV, 1774.

Oct 26, 2022 – Feb 19, 2023
Place d'Armes, 78000 Versailles, France

King Louis XV of France, also known as Louis the Well-Beloved, ascended the throne at age five, though his grand-uncle, Philippe II, Duke of Orléans, served as Regent until his maturity. Louis XV reigned for 68 years alongside his wife, Marie Leszczynska, and his mistresses. He was discreet, and loved to spend long periods of time in isolation, behind the safe walls of his private apartments. Marking the 300th anniversary of his 1722 coronation, this exhibition of 400 objects explores the king’s family life, hobbies, and role as patron of the arts. —Elena Clavarino

Photo courtesy of the collection of the Palace of Versailles