Revocation of the Edict of Nantes: Louis XIV's Absolutism and the Catholic Clergy's Influence (1685)
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Louis XIV, Edict Fontainebleau, Edict Nantes, Catholic Clergy, heresy, absolutism, royal power, French Reformed, Protestantism, Gerard Jollain
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Abstract
Discover the historical significance of "The Destruction of Heresy by the Piety and Zeal of Louis the Great," a captivating 1685 etching by Gérard Jollain. This intricate print illustrates the Edict of Fontainebleau, issued by Louis XIV, revoking the Edict of Nantes and showcasing the king's commitment to Catholicism. The image is rich in allegorical figures, clergy, and representations of the social order, highlighting the complex interplay between royal power and religious authority. With its detailed symbolism and historical context, this etching offers a unique glimpse into 17th-century French politics and the struggle against heresy. Explore the artistic and historical nuances of this significant work, and uncover the story behind one of the most pivotal moments in French history.
Extract
[...] The Reformed seem stunned, surprised, delighted, or curious in front of this revelation. The title of the print "heresy unmasked by truth" suggests a heresy trampled by Catholicism or by allegories of the king's virtues. The print emphasizes the king's will (upper part) and his justification (lower part). On the other hand, nothing is known about the means taken or the result, and reality is not represented here: nothing is known about the affronts inflicted on the French Calvinist community. [...]
[...] It is titled 'The destruction of heresy by the piety and zeal of Louis the Great and the care of our lords of the Clergy of France'. It was produced by an anonymous artist from the workshop 'À la ville de Cologne', rue Saint-Jacques in Paris and held by Gérard Jollain, publisher and print seller. Nothing is known about the commissioner. Almanacs were addressed to a poorly educated public and had several functions: a manual of good manners, a tool for communication and exchange. [...]
[...] The king, an essential actor Louis XIV, with his ermine cloak, scepter, and crown, points to the edict, which results from his will. Different allegories representing the prince's virtues accentuate his central role in the development of the edict: in the foreground on the left, a character in Roman attire holds a sword with the inscription 'divine zeal', which can be the symbol of the power that defeats the enemy (the Protestants) like the Archangel St. Michael defeating the dragon. [...]
[...] The first played a moderating role in the revocation of the Edict of Nantes. The second participated in the development of the Edict of Nantes. The clergy, represented on the right of the print, can refer to the assembly of the clergy in 1685 on the occasion of which the king renews the contract that binds him to the latter and his promise to fight heresy. The Catholic clergy supports Louis XIV's decision, which cannot directly challenge the Edict of Nantes, established by Henri IV, who was very popular, but can legitimize it by religious references. [...]
[...] The text is held by Chancellor Le Tellier, who embodies the king's justice because he can seal royal acts and make them legal. He therefore occupies an important place, as evidenced by his foot on the throne's step. The cartouches at the top of the etching mention the words 'ectators', 'heretical sect', 'conversion'. Beyond the legal scope, the Edict of Fontainebleau is a religious battle waged by the Catholic clergy. The dove in the background symbolizes the Holy Spirit and the will to bring peace to the kingdom. [...]
