Louis XIV ('The Sun King'), King of France
1 portrait by Jacques Grignon
© National Portrait Gallery, London
Louis XIV ('The Sun King'), King of France
by Jacques Grignon, after Nicholas Mignard
line engraving, circa 1666
14 1/2 in. x 11 3/4 in. (368 mm x 297 mm) paper size
Given by Sir Herbert Henry Raphael, 1st Bt, 1913
Reference Collection
NPG D18875
Sitterback to top
- Louis XIV ('The Sun King'), King of France (1638-1715), King of France 1643-1715. Sitter in 2 portraits.
Artistsback to top
- Jacques Grignon (circa 1640-1698). Artist or producer associated with 1 portrait.
- Nicholas Mignard (1606-1668). Artist or producer associated with 1 portrait.
Events of 1666back to top
Current affairs
The Great Fire of London starts in a baker's shop in Pudding Lane, destroying two-thirds of the city. Charles II and James, Duke of York personally direct and manually assist with the fire-fighting effort. Thousands are left homeless, though few people die.Art and science
Mathematical scientist, Isaac Newton, formulates a series of groundbreaking theories concerning light, colour, calculus, and, after supposedly watching an apple fall from a tree, the universal law of gravitation.Nicholas Lanier, Master of the King's Music dies and Frenchman Louis Grabu is appointed the post.
International
The Four Days' Battle. Dutch navy led by Admiral Michiel de Ruyter attacks the English fleet under George Monck, Duke of Albemarle, now Joint- Commander-in-Chief with Prince Rupert. Outcome of the battle is indecisive, though England loses twice as many men and ships, severely damaging the fleet.Comments back to top
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