5.4.4. THE HALL OF MIRRORS

DRAMA, POWER AND EXPENSE

Three hundred and fifty-seven mirrors reflect the light from 17 monumental window arches on one side of wall and 17 mirrored arches on the other, while a vault with 30 compositions glorify the king. 

Zoom

Zoom 

Hundreds of courtiers stand on either side of the gallery as Louis makes his way for mass each morning. They jostle to be in front to catch his eye, under thirty scenes in his honor.

The King Governs by Himself / zoom

Central panel: Glory holding a crown of stars above the king.

Louis holds the rudder of the ship of State and the cupids at his feet show the pleasures of the happy court. He wears armor of course.

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Louis takes Ghent in six days / zoom

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The King Puts Order in the Finances / zoom

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The windows give out on a perspective that merges with the horizon, symbol of endless royal power.

Olafur Eliasson

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The hall also has another use: 

              -- Video on conditions of life at Versailles, starting with nobles and continuing down.

Ten thousand humble people

make the show work.

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End of this section.

Next,

5.4.5 

Detour: comparable change