Collection: Versailles, castles of Versailles and Trianon © RMN-Grand Palais / Rights reserved

Louis-Philippe and his sons on horseback in front of the gate of the castle of Versailles, painting by Horace Vernet, 1846

The royal equestrian portrait continued into the 19th century. In the painting’s foreground, surrounded by his sons who are also in the saddle King Louis-Philippe presents himself as a riding ruler, calmly leading his horse with one hand alone. The white animal seems to be perfectly at the orders of his master, despite the bustle of those around it. In the background, the equestrian statue of Louis XIV, erected under Louis Philippe, is visible and echoes the royal power. Like his predecessor, the king is shown riding on horseback, a symbol of greatness.