19th century, Hunting scene of the French Royals

19th century Hunting scene of the French Royals Ivory, open cm. 18 x 14.5 This precious 19th-century ivory triptych presents itself as a refined artifact of historicist craftsmanship, characterized by three trefoil-arched panels that narrate a dynamic royal hunting scene. The central panel is dominated by the figure of a king on horseback, likely identifiable as the Sun King Louis XIV, whose majestic equestrian iconography is enhanced by the plastic carving of the volumes and anatomical details. Louis XIV radically transformed hunting, elevating it from a simple sporting practice to one of the fundamental pillars of etiquette and political propaganda for the absolute monarchy. It became a true court pastime, codified in every detail, in which the sovereign displayed his physical vigor and ability to dominate nature, a living metaphor for the control exerted over the State. The finely engraved architectural profile in the background, reminiscent of the structures of the castles of Fontainebleau or Versailles, acts as a scenic backdrop for the action. The upper pediment is adorned with the heraldic coat of arms of the French monarchy with the three fleur-de-lis, surrounded by cornucopias symbolizing royal prosperity.