About the Piece

Louis 'The Grand Dauphin' (1661–1711), son of Louis XIV and Marie Therese of Spain. He is shown here in his hunting outfit with his favorite hunting dog. Around the young man's waist is attached a sword with the hilt in the shape of a baby eagle's head. This is a symbolic play on words since Louis' nickname was 'L'Aiglon,' meaning 'the young eagle'. The Grand Dauphin was fond of hunting and because he is depicted here in his hunting attire, no emblematic devices are shown. Even the sleeves at his wrist are kept close to the skin to avoid the hazards of being caught in the branches and foliage during his sometimes intense hunting episodes. Louis was so fond of hunting that he actually cut off his beautiful blond hair and substituted a wig so that he would not be hindered by getting his hair caught in underbrush or foliage. Although his facial characteristics closely resemble those of his father the king, later in life he would grow rather fat. You already see signs of this being cleverly disguised by the use of the red cloak tucked into the waistband and thrown back over his right shoulder. This painting probably hung in his chateau at Meudon or his private apartments at the Chateau de Versailles.