An enchanting exhibition highlights the fusion of science and art from the reign of the last Bourbon kings in France
London: This charming exhibition is a version of one first shown at Versailles in 2010. It’s all about the blend of absolute monarchy and science during the reigns of Louis XIV, XV, and XVI. Sure, the Science Museum isn’t quite the Hall of Mirrors, but it’s still a treat.
There are around 120 items on display, with 40 coming straight from Paris. The star? Louis XV’s stuffed rhinoceros, a magnificent but grumpy creature. He lived through Louis XVI’s reign but sadly met his end at the hands of revolutionaries in 1793, just months after the king.
Monarchs have always had their menageries, but what’s fascinating is how the last Bourbon kings really pushed science as a status symbol. They were into it, and so were the scientists, who sought royal backing. Even the princesses got in on the action!
During this time, science was as fashionable as art. There’s a cool picture of a salon where Voltaire was read, and Buffon, a big name in natural science, was there too. Presenting discoveries at court was a huge deal for scientists back then.
Science covered a lot of ground, from engineering to cartography and even fireworks! The amazing Marly Machine, which brought water uphill to the fountains at Versailles, was a real engineering marvel.
In the early part of the show, you’ll see some stunning time-measuring instruments, including a beautiful quadrant and an early pendulum clock. The scientific societies were formed thanks to Louis XIV’s finance minister, Colbert, who was a pretty influential guy.
Next, the exhibition dives into how water was transported to Versailles and how natural history studies were fueled by specimens sent from French colonies. It also highlights women in science, like Voltaire’s mistress, Emilie du Chatelet, and the amazing hot air balloon that Etienne Montgolfier flew from Versailles.
There are so many incredible pieces here! From the Clock of the Creation of the World to Marie Antoinette’s stunning watch, and even Madame de Coudray’s anatomical dolls for teaching obstetrics. My personal favorite is The Cabinet of Mr. Le Clerc, which beautifully depicts an idealized lab.
Visitors might feel a bit nostalgic for a time when science was intertwined with the decorative arts and accessible to everyone. The beautiful instruments and captivating depictions of nature remind us that science doesn’t have to be all about cold, hard facts—it can be beautiful too!
Science Museum, to April 21; sciencemuseum.org.uk