These Fascinating Objects Show How the Palace of Versailles Drove Surprising Scientific Advances in the 17th and 18th Centuries

The Palace of Versailles in France is not just a symbol of opulence and grandeur, but also a hub of scientific innovation during the 17th and 18th centuries. The sprawling grounds of Versailles boast ornamental fountains and ponds that were made possible by a specially designed machine that transported water from the Seine River to the palace. This engineering marvel was commissioned by King Louis XIV, also known as the Sun King, who had a keen interest in science and technology.

The Science Museum in London is currently hosting an exhibition titled “Versailles: Science and Splendor,” which delves into the intersection of art, science, and royalty at Versailles. The exhibition showcases over 120 artifacts from the reigns of Louis XIV, Louis XV, and Louis XVI, highlighting the scientific advancements made during their time.

One such innovation featured in the exhibition is a curved scalpel designed by Louis XIV’s royal surgeon, Charles-François Félix, to treat the king’s anal fistula. Despite the risks involved in testing the scalpel on peasants, Félix’s invention was successful, and Louis XIV lived a long reign. Another notable figure in the exhibition is Madame du Coudray, a midwife hired by Louis XV to train other midwives in rural France using sophisticated mannequins.

The exhibition also explores the royal family’s involvement in medical practices, such as getting inoculated against smallpox. Additionally, it delves into the study of natural history at Versailles, including the menagerie of exotic animals like coatis and cassowaries. One of the highlights of the exhibition is the display of Louis XV’s rhinoceros, which was dissected and taxidermied after its death.

Visitors to the exhibition can also marvel at objects like Emilie du Châtelet’s annotated translation of Isaac Newton’s Principia Mathematica, the watch crafted by Abraham-Louis Breguet for Marie Antoinette, and Jean-Dominique Cassini’s map of the moon. Despite the turmoil of the French Revolution, the scientific advancements made at Versailles endured and continued to influence future generations.

“Versailles: Science and Splendor” at the Science Museum in London is a fascinating exploration of the convergence of royal ambition, scientific knowledge, and artistic beauty during the golden age of Versailles. The exhibition will be open to the public until April 21, 2025, offering visitors a glimpse into the rich scientific history of one of the world’s most iconic palaces.