Did Louis XIV ever imagine his triumph would be immortalized in the gardens of Versailles? Here in the Bosquet de l’Arc de Triomphe, the Sun King’s victory over the Quadruple Alliance is frozen in time. The Bosquet de l’Arc de Triomphe was originally envisioned as a grand celebration, featuring a magnificent gilded iron arch. This arch gave the bosquet its name. Sadly, this arch no longer exists. But the spirit of triumph remains, embodied in the magnificent fountain of “France Triumphant.” This lead fountain, crafted by Tuby, Coysevox, and Prou, depicts France as a Roman goddess, lance in hand, standing atop a chariot. At her feet lie vanquished foes: Spain, symbolized by a lion, and the Holy Roman Empire, represented by an eagle. Even the three-headed dragon, representing the defeated alliance, is present. The detail is exquisite, a testament to the artistry of the era. The Bosquet de l’Arc de Triomphe stands as a reminder of a pivotal moment in French history, the Peace of Nijmegen in 1678. This victory earned Louis XIV the title of “Louis the Grand,” a moniker echoed in the grandeur of the gardens. While the original arch may be gone, the Bosquet de l’Arc de Triomphe still offers a glimpse into the opulent world of the Sun King. It serves as a constant reminder of France’s power and prestige.
Центральный дом работников искусств
Step through the grand wooden doors of the Central House of the Workers of Art, and you’ll be transported to