Painting The Last of the Merovingians oil on canvas 19th century

COD 10998

French painting from the second half of the 1821th century. Oil on canvas depicting a historical subject, The Last of the Merovingians, a contemporary copy of the highest quality of the famous painting by Evariste-Vital Luminais (1896-98). A painting depicting the deposition of King Childeric III, the last King of the Franks of the Merovingian lineage. Pepin the Short, in order to take Childeric's place, wrote to Pope Zachary asking whether the title of King belonged to those who exercised power or to those who were of royal blood. The Pope replied that the one who exercised power should be king. Having thus received the approval of the Supreme Pontiff, Pepin the Short had the sovereign deposed and took his place. Childeric, known as the Ghost King, was then shaved. His long hair was the symbol of his dynasty and royal rights. Cutting it deprived him of such rights. The work develops vertically, with meticulous and well-finished details of the composition and the drapery of the robes. Note the crown abandoned in a corner along with the royal cloak at the bottom left. Beautifully decorated modern carved and gilded wooden frame. Painting that has undergone restoration with relining, replacement of the frame and recoloring in small spots. Overall in good condition. Painting size H 79 x W XNUMX cm.