Armiger, Ephebus, Americani, from 'Courses de Testes et de Bagues Faittes par Roy et par les Princes et Signeurs de sa Cour, en l'annee 1662' (Grand Carrousel)

Art Historical Context

Step into the opulent world of 17th-century France with *Armiger, Ephebus, Americani*, an etching from the lavish series *Courses de Test et de Bagues Ftes par Roy et par Princes et Signeurs sa Cour, en l 1662* (Grand Carrousel). Created between 1662 and 1670, this print captures a highlight of King Louis XIV's extravagant equestrian festival held in Paris's Place Royale. The "Grand Carrousel" was a dazzling spectacle of mock battles, ring jousting, and parades, where nobles donned costumes inspired by ancient Romans, Persians, Turks, and even Native Americans—here evoked in the title's references to squires (*Armiger*), youths (*Ephebus*), and "Americani." It celebrated the young Sun King's power and cultural splendor amid post-war festivities. Collaboratively crafted by writer Charles Perrault, engraver François Chauveau, and master etcher Israël Silvestre, the work exemplifies the era's virtuoso printmaking. Etching's fine lines allowed intricate details of prancing horses, ornate armor, and architectural grandeur to be precisely reproduced, making royal pomp accessible beyond the elite crowds. Classified under fêtes, ornament, and architecture, this 12 3/8 × 10 3/8 in. plate (on a larger sheet) now graces the Metropolitan Museum of Art, gifted in 1960. These prints weren't just souvenirs—they propagated Louis XIV's image as a triumphant monarch, blending Baroque extravagance with national pride. Imagine the thunder of hooves and cheers echoing through Versailles' precursor events!

About the Artist

Charles Perrault|François Chauveau|Israel Silvestre (French|French|French) · 1628 |1621 |1613 –1703 |1691 |1676

French, Paris 1628–1703 Paris|French, Nancy 1621–1691 Paris|French, Paris 1613–1676 Paris