Seduction and Power, the exhibition at the Royal Domaine of Marly.
The Museum of the Royal Domain of Marly offers a chance to discover Seduction and Power. The Art of Preparing for Court, an exhibition dedicated to fashion and beauty accessories from the 17th and 18th centuries.
It should be noted that between the reigns of Louis XIV and Louis XVI, Versailles and Paris competed for the title of fashion capital. More specifically, this assertion of power over the other, of their social status, involves ornaments that allow for self-presentation. Thus, seduction in the broadest possible sense requires means to convince through charm. That is why fashion and beauty accessories support a new way of presenting oneself. Therefore, the body is adorned with various artifices that compete for boldness and distinction. In fact, one prepares to exist. Fashion accessories, beauty products, and the art of perfume exalt this delicate quest of women and men in the 17th and 18th centuries.
This art of seduction is, on the one hand, a mimeticism towards the king and power, and on the other hand, a necessity to break free from it in order to stand out and better reveal one’s rank.
No doubt this culture of court seduction is evolving, and so are its beauty standards. It is interesting to see an interest developing in «pocket elegance,» that is, small, precious objects. These objects, which are worn on the person, are for example: fanlights, cigarette cases, or notebooks that transform into real jewels. Likewise, the adornments on clothes are essential. The embroidery of gold and silver threads is particularly used to adorn the grand court dress. And it adorns the small elegant accessories such as handbags or wallets.
18th century
Or cut
Morteau, Museum of Watchmaking
© Thierry Malty – France Horlogerie
But the jewel is the indispensable accessory. This is what characterizes a part of these court jewelry These medallions are tokens of love or friendship. They are adorned with stones or pearls and are worn as brooches, sewn on, or hung around the neck. It should be noted that the refinement of pocket and fine jewelry objects continues to grow with the development of art and craftsmanship. These objects, which are both decorative and functional, combine rare materials and craftsmanship.
Ultimately, this exhibition at the Marly museum immerses the visitor in the culture of the 18th-century court. These objects and jewels undoubtedly highlight codified gestures and the art of seduction. A culture of beauty and sometimes of extravagance to be discovered.
Exhibition until August 27, 2023
Museum of the Royal Domain of Marly
