LOUIS XV

KING LOUIS XV OF FRANCE

This fascinating archive reveals the life and reign of King Louis XV of France, a monarch whose rule was marked by both opulence and underlying challenges as France enjoyed cultural heights yet faced mounting political unrest. Within this assortment of rare decrees, edicts, proclamations, manuscripts, documents, cabinet cards, photos, and personal letters, one can glimpse into the complexities of Louis XV’s court and governance. Ideal for historians, collectors, and enthusiasts of French history, these artifacts provide insight into a king celebrated for his refined tastes, complex relationships, and the struggles he encountered in maintaining France’s influence and stability.

Louis XV, who ascended the throne as a child in 1715, succeeded his great-grandfather, Louis XIV, and ruled during an era of both prosperity and tension. His reign saw costly conflicts, including the War of Austrian Succession and the Seven Years’ War, which strained the nation’s resources and tested his leadership. Known as “Louis the Well-Beloved” early in his rule, he later faced public disillusionment due to mounting economic and social challenges. Despite this, his era was one of immense cultural achievement, with the Rococo style reaching its height at his court in Versailles.

Louis XV’s legacy is defined by contrasts—extravagance and hardship, admiration and disenchantment—and the unresolved issues that contributed to the political turmoil leading to the French Revolution. His rule remains a compelling chapter in French history, showcasing the complexities of a monarchy under strain.