Le Bal des Ombres

Mémoire du Roi: The Masquerade

Canvas Size: 56 × 43 inches (Horizontal)

Theme Overview:
This painting captures the opulence and theatricality of 17th–18th-century court life — a masked ball, where elegance meets intrigue. The masquerade, an essential element of the royal court, is a ritualized performance, intertwining power, seduction, and diplomacy. The nobility, draped in intricate costumes, wear their roles both literally and figuratively, embodying the dualities of public and private selves.

Key Themes and Symbolism:

• A Duality of Roles: The masked ball is not merely a celebration; it’s an embodiment of the paradoxical nature of monarchy. On one hand, it's a spectacle of indulgence, on the other, it reflects the deeper, hidden truths behind royal duties.

• Baroque Visual Language: The painting uses chiaroscuro lighting, emphasizing contrasts of light and shadow. The rich textures of fabric and dynamic composition transport the viewer directly to the heart of a lavish court.

• Masks as Metaphor: The masks worn by the nobility symbolize the concealment that is intrinsic to both politics and courtship. They hide true identity, adding an air of mystery and allure to the scene.

Contribution to the Collection:

• Contrast with Earlier Themes: While works like La Promesse du Trône evoke solemnity, this piece highlights the spectacle and distractions of royal life, accentuating the tension between duty and indulgence.

• Rich Atmosphere and Depth: The use of decadence and the allure of mystery brings additional layers to Mémoire du Roi, expanding its narrative to include both the public grandeur and private intrigue of the court.

This painting adds a dynamic, theatrical dimension to the overall collection, deepening the exploration of identity, power, and performance in the royal world.