Artwork
King Philip III of France
King Philip III of France is an oil painting by Pierre-Jules Jollivet. It dates from 1837 and is held in the collection of the Palace of Versailles. Pierre‑Jules Jollivet, a French artist associated with the Romantic era, produced an oil portrait of King Philip III in 1837.
About this work
Overview
Pierre‑Jules Jollivet, a French artist associated with the Romantic era, produced an oil portrait of King Philip III in 1837. The canvas presents the medieval monarch in regal attire, emphasizing his status through the use of a crown and luxurious garments. The work is part of the collection at the Palace of Versailles, where it contributes to the broader representation of French royal history.
Subject & Meaning
The figure portrayed is the 13th‑century king Philip III, recognizable by his dark hair, crown studded with gems and pearls, and a white fur‑trimmed cloak overlaying a dark robe with gold detailing. His gaze turns toward the right edge of the frame, suggesting a contemplative or authoritative presence. The composition underscores the monarch’s authority and the continuity of French royal lineage.
Technique & Style
Executed in oil on canvas, Jollivet employs a restrained palette dominated by deep, muted tones that recede into the background, thereby concentrating visual focus on the sitter. The brushwork renders the textures of the fur and metalwork with subtle modeling, while the overall composition reflects Romantic sensibilities through its emphasis on dramatic lighting and the dignified pose of the subject.
History & Provenance
Created in 1837, the portrait entered the holdings of the Palace of Versailles, where it remains displayed among other works depicting French monarchs. Its inclusion in the royal collection underscores Jollivet’s role in 19th‑century French historic painting and provides a visual link between the Romantic period and the medieval past it seeks to commemorate.
Artist & collection
Artist
Pierre-Jules Jollivet (27 June 1803, in Paris – 7 September 1871, in Paris) was a French painter and lithographer who worked mostly in the Romantic style and is largely known for genre scenes.
Charles V of France
Charles de France (1220-1285), comte d'Anjou
Louis IX (1215-1270) dit Saint-Louis, roi de France
Fernando el Católico
Pépin III, dit le Bref, roi des Francs (714-768)
Louis V of France
Jean II Stuart, connétable de Buchan (+ 1424)
Louis VI, dit le Gros, roi de France (1078-1137)
Aurelio
Charles IV le Bel, roi de France (1295-1328)
Lothair of France
King Philip II of France