Jean-Baptiste-François Carteaux – Louis XVI, King of France and Navarre; equestrian portrait of the king wearing the tricolor cockade Château de Versailles

Here we observe a full-length equestrian portrait of a man on horseback. The figure is centrally positioned and dominates the composition. He appears to be a ruler, judging by his elaborate attire: a vibrant red military uniform adorned with gold embroidery, multiple orders and medals displayed prominently on his chest, and a tricorn hat embellished with feathers and insignia. His posture conveys authority; he holds a sword aloft in a gesture that suggests leadership and readiness for action. The horse itself is rendered as a powerful, white steed, further emphasizing the subject’s status and strength.
The background is deliberately subdued. A low horizon line establishes a sense of vastness, while the sky displays turbulent brushwork suggesting an impending storm or a dramatic atmosphere. This backdrop serves to isolate the figure and draw attention to his presence. The landscape below appears barren, with only sparse vegetation visible.
Several subtexts are embedded within this depiction. The choice of a military uniform, coupled with the sword-wielding gesture, aims to project an image of strength and martial prowess – qualities expected of a sovereign in times of potential unrest or conflict. The white horse is a traditional symbol of nobility and purity, reinforcing the subject’s elevated position.
Notably, the tricolor cockade worn on his hat is significant. Its presence, at this historical juncture, signals an embrace of revolutionary ideals – a deliberate attempt to align the ruler with emerging sentiments for change and national unity. This detail introduces a layer of complexity; it suggests a calculated effort to appear sympathetic to popular movements while maintaining an image of regal authority.
The artist’s technique contributes to the overall effect. The use of light and shadow highlights the figures features and uniform, creating a sense of grandeur and importance. The brushwork is generally smooth and controlled, indicative of a formal portrait intended for public display. Overall, this painting functions as more than just a likeness; it is a carefully constructed statement about power, legitimacy, and the evolving political landscape.