Home > Arts > Artists > T > Antoine Trouvain
The royal game of billiards between Louis
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Mary Evans Picture Library
The royal game of billiards between Louis
The royal game of billiards between Louis XIV and Michel Chamillard in the third apartment. After an engraving by Antoine Trouvain, 1698. Lithograph from Henry Rene Allemagnes Sports and Games of Skill (Sports et Jeux d Adresse), Librairie Hachette, Paris, 1903
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 23204316
© Florilegius/Mary Evans
Allemagne Antoine Apartment Ball Billiards Croquet Ivory Jeux Michel Pole Pool Rene Ring Skill Snooker Games Trouvain
FEATURES IN THESE COLLECTIONS
> Arts
> Artists
> T
> Antoine Trouvain
> Europe
> France
> Paris
> Sport
> Mary Evans Prints Online
> New Images August 2021
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print depicts a historic moment in the annals of billiards history: a royal game between King Louis XIV of France and Michel Chamillard, the renowned billiards master, in the third apartment of the Palace of Versailles. The image, based on an engraving by Antoine Trouvain in 1698, was later reproduced as a lithograph in Henry Rene Allemagne's "Sports and Games of Skill" (Sports et Jeux d'Adresse) published in Paris in 1903. The scene unfolds in an elegant and ornate setting, with the king and Chamillard intently focused on their game. Louis XIV, dressed in his regal attire, holds the ivory cue with a confident grip, while Chamillard, wearing a simple coat and waistcoat, leans over the table, his eyes fixed on the ball in front of him. The billiards table, adorned with gold trim and intricate designs, is the centerpiece of the room, surrounded by an audience of nobles and courtiers. The game being played is not the modern version of billiards that we are familiar with today, but rather an older form, with the use of rings, poles, and ivory balls. This version of the game, known as "billiards a l'anglaise," was popular in Europe during the late 17th and early 18th centuries. The objective was to hit the balls into the pockets using a cue, but the rings and poles added an extra layer of complexity, as they could be used to deflect the balls or block opponents' shots. This print offers a fascinating glimpse into the past, showcasing the elegance and sophistication of the French court during the reign of Louis XIV and the popularity of billiards as a favorite pastime among the aristocracy.
MADE IN AUSTRALIA
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Cart.