Oval, enamel, in a gilt frame, engraved on the reverse ‘Lewis. y. 14th by Petitot.’ 4.2cm.
Louis XIV (1638-1715), became King of France at the age of five under the Regency of his mother, Anne of Austria; gaining full control in 1661.
During his reign, France became the dominant power in Europe and he would become the longest recorded reigning monarch in history.
Jean Petitot (1607-1691), a Swiss artist, was recognised as one of the finest enamel painters of his time. He spent most of his working life at the Courts of France and England.
